WorldWideScience

Sample records for kobe saiitaku kenkyu

  1. Report on achievements in fiscal 1998. Surveys on development of an at-home welfare device system to rationalize energy use. (Kobe); 1998 nendo energy shiyo gorika zaitaku fukushi kiki system kaihatsu chosa (Kobe) saiitaku kenkyu seika hokokusho

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1999-03-01

    In the Kobe district, studies were performed with the importance placed on energy consumption at care-taking sites. Power consumption of devices used in residential houses of families having physically handicapped and elderly persons has been measured for two to three months, and in addition a questionnaire survey was carried out on operation frequency of welfare devices. Particularly from the power consumption and the use frequency of the devices to keep warm heat environment for physically handicapped and elderly persons, meaningful findings were obtained from the viewpoint of effective energy utilization, summarized as follows: (1) energy consumption of welfare devices used in care-taking sites in homes is small; (2) the power consumption varies greatly depending on methods to keep the warm heat environment; (3) in the case of discussing residential houses arranged with considerations for elderly people, the warm heat environment is important, and room cooling and warming devices including air conditioners should be included in the category of welfare devices, (4) a proposal was made on structuring a 'system to match elderly persons' physical conditions' intended to make a warm heat environment most suitable for physically handicapped and elderly persons, and (5) a proposal was made on discussing a 'system combining solar cells with large capacity batteries' of effective energy utilization type. (NEDO)

  2. The Long-Run Socio-Economic Consequences of a Large Disaster: The 1995 Earthquake in Kobe.

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    William duPont

    Full Text Available We quantify the 'permanent' socio-economic impacts of the Great Hanshin-Awaji (Kobe earthquake in 1995 by employing a large-scale panel dataset of 1,719 cities, towns, and wards from Japan over three decades. In order to estimate the counterfactual--i.e., the Kobe economy without the earthquake--we use the synthetic control method. Three important empirical patterns emerge: First, the population size and especially the average income level in Kobe have been lower than the counterfactual level without the earthquake for over fifteen years, indicating a permanent negative effect of the earthquake. Such a negative impact can be found especially in the central areas which are closer to the epicenter. Second, the surrounding areas experienced some positive permanent impacts in spite of short-run negative effects of the earthquake. Much of this is associated with movement of people to East Kobe, and consequent movement of jobs to the metropolitan center of Osaka, that is located immediately to the East of Kobe. Third, the furthest areas in the vicinity of Kobe seem to have been insulated from the large direct and indirect impacts of the earthquake.

  3. The Long-Run Socio-Economic Consequences of a Large Disaster: The 1995 Earthquake in Kobe

    Science.gov (United States)

    duPont IV, William; Noy, Ilan; Okuyama, Yoko; Sawada, Yasuyuki

    2015-01-01

    We quantify the ‘permanent’ socio-economic impacts of the Great Hanshin-Awaji (Kobe) earthquake in 1995 by employing a large-scale panel dataset of 1,719 cities, towns, and wards from Japan over three decades. In order to estimate the counterfactual—i.e., the Kobe economy without the earthquake—we use the synthetic control method. Three important empirical patterns emerge: First, the population size and especially the average income level in Kobe have been lower than the counterfactual level without the earthquake for over fifteen years, indicating a permanent negative effect of the earthquake. Such a negative impact can be found especially in the central areas which are closer to the epicenter. Second, the surrounding areas experienced some positive permanent impacts in spite of short-run negative effects of the earthquake. Much of this is associated with movement of people to East Kobe, and consequent movement of jobs to the metropolitan center of Osaka, that is located immediately to the East of Kobe. Third, the furthest areas in the vicinity of Kobe seem to have been insulated from the large direct and indirect impacts of the earthquake. PMID:26426998

  4. January 1995 Hanshin-Awaji (Kobe), Japan Images

    Data.gov (United States)

    National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Department of Commerce — On the morning of January 17, 1995 (January 16 at 20:46 GMT), a major earthquake occurred near the City of Kobe, Japan. The greatest intensity of shaking for the 6.9...

  5. International Comparison of Causative Bacteria and Antimicrobial Susceptibilities of Urinary Tract Infections between Kobe, Japan, and Surabaya, Indonesia.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Kitagawa, Koichi; Shigemura, Katsumi; Yamamichi, Fukashi; Alimsardjono, Lindawati; Rahardjo, Dadik; Kuntaman, Kuntaman; Shirakawa, Toshiro; Fujisawa, Masato

    2018-01-23

    Variation by country in urinary tract infection (UTI)-causative bacteria is partly due to the differences in the use of antibiotics. We compared their frequencies and antibiotic susceptibilities in the treatment of patients with UTI from 2 cities, Kobe, Japan, and Surabaya, Indonesia. We retrospectively analyzed 1,804 urine samples collected from patients with UTI in 2014 (1,251 collected in 11 months at Kobe University Hospital in Kobe and 544 collected in 2 months at Dr. Soetomo Hospital in Surabaya). Surabaya data were divided into adult and pediatric patients because a substantial number of specimens from pediatric-patients had been collected. The results indicated that Escherichia coli was the most common uropathogen (24.1% in Kobe and 39.3% in Surabaya) and was significantly resistant to ampicillin and substantially to first- and third-generation cephalosporins in Surabaya adults but not in Kobe adults (p < 0.01). Enterococcus faecalis was often isolated in Kobe (14.0%), but not in Surabaya (5.3%). Klebsiella spp. were isolated at a higher rate in Surabaya pediatric patients (20.3%) than in Surabaya adults (13.6%) and Kobe adults (6.6%). The antibiotic susceptibilities of the isolates form Surabaya isolates tended to be lower than the ones from Kobe. Extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Gram-negative bacteria were detected at a significantly higher rate in Surabaya than in Kobe (p < 0.001). These results showed that the antimicrobial resistance patterns of UTI-causative bacteria are highly variable among 2 countries, and the continuous surveillance of trends in antibiotic resistance patterns of uropathogens is necessary for the future revision of antibiotic use.

  6. On precursory ULF/ELF electromagnetic signatures for the Kobe earthquake on April 12, 2013

    Science.gov (United States)

    Schekotov, A.; Izutsu, J.; Hayakawa, M.

    2015-12-01

    After the 2011 Tohoku earthquake (EQ), there have been numerous aftershocks in the eastern and Pacific Ocean of Japan, but EQs are still rare in the western part of Japan. In this situation a relatively large (magnitude (M) ∼ 6) EQ happened on April 12 (UT), 2013 at a place close to the 1995 Kobe EQ (M ∼ 7), so we have tried to find whether there existed any electromagnetic precursors to this EQ. Two precursory signatures are detected: one is the depression of ULF (ultra-low-frequency, 0.01-0.02 Hz) geomagnetic variations on April 9, and the second is wideband ELF (extremely low frequency) electromagnetic radiation on April 11. These results for the 2013 Kobe EQ are compared with the corresponding results for the former 1995 Kobe EQ.

  7. On the ionospheric perturbation for the 1995 Kobe earthquake: revisited

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Masashi Hayakawa

    2016-01-01

    Full Text Available The presence of seismo-lower ionospheric perturbation for the Kobe earthquake (EQ has been revisited with a relatively new phenomenon of ULF (ultra-low-frequency magnetic field depression effect. By using the ULF data in Japan only at Kakioka belonging to Japan Meteorological Agency (because data from Memambetsu and Kanoya were not available, we have found that a very clear ULF depression was observed at Kakioka on 14 January 1995. A comparison with our former result on subionospheric VLF (very low frequency propagation anomaly indicates that the occurrence of ULF depression exhibits a temporal coincidence (synchronization with that of subionospheric VLF anomaly. This may be acceptable because the ULF depression can be explained in terms of enhanced absorption of magnetospheric ULF waves through the disturbed lower ionosphere prior to an EQ. The result of ULF magnetic field depression in this paper is likely to provide a further support to the presence of the lower ionospheric perturbation before the Kobe EQ.

  8. Evidence of precursor phenomena in the Kobe earthquake obtained from atmospheric radon concentration

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Yasuoka, Yumi [Kobe Pharmaceutical University, 4-19-1 Mtoyamakitama-machi, Higashinada-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 658-8558 (Japan)]. E-mail: yasuoka@kobepharma-u.ac.jp; Igarashi, George [Science Research Center for Prediction of Earthquakes and Volcanic Eruptions, Tohoku University, 4-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi 980-8575 (Japan); Ishikawa, Testuo [National Institute of Radiological Sciences, 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba 263-8555 (Japan); Tokonami, Shinji [National Institute of Radiological Sciences, 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba 263-8555 (Japan); Shinogi, Masaki [Kobe Pharmaceutical University, 4-19-1 Mtoyamakitama-machi, Higashinada-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 658-8558 (Japan)

    2006-06-15

    Atmospheric {sup 222}Rn concentrations were determined over a 10a period, which included the date of the Kobe, Japan earthquake, on January 17th 1995. It was found that the seismically related {sup 222}Rn anomaly was higher than the 99% confidence limits for the residual value of atmospheric {sup 222}Rn which had been observed 2 months before. The residual {sup 222}Rn concentration, in which residual values of the daily minimum are the difference between each normal {sup 222}Rn concentration (calculated from January 1984 to December 1993) and the daily minimum {sup 222}Rn concentration (January 1994 to January 1995), was calculated by applying the exponential smoothing method to the residual values for each day. It was found that the fluctuations of the residual values can be fitted very well to a log-periodic oscillation model. The real residual values stopped increasing at 1994.999 (December 31st 1994), which corresponds with the critical point (t {sub c}) of best fit model. This anomalous {sup 222}Rn variation can be seen as the result of local stresses, not primary stresses which directly lead to the Kobe earthquake. On the other hand, when the critical exponent (z) and the radial frequency ({omega}) of the model were simultaneously fixed 0.2 {<=} z {<=} 0.6 and 6 {<=} {omega} {<=} 12, t {sub c} (critical point) was between January 13th 1995 and January 27th 1995. The Kobe earthquake occurrence date (January 17th 1995) is within this range. Therefore this anomalous {sup 222}Rn variation can also be seen as the result of primary stresses which possibly led to the Kobe earthquake. There is a distinct possibility that similar statistical oscillations will be detected in other measurements such as microseismicity, tectonic strain, fluctuation in the ground level, or changes in groundwater elevations and composition.

  9. Stress transferred by the 1995 Mw = 6.9 Kobe, Japan, shock: Effect on aftershocks and future earthquake probabilities

    Science.gov (United States)

    Toda, S.; Stein, R.S.; Reasenberg, P.A.; Dieterich, J.H.; Yoshida, A.

    1998-01-01

    The Kobe earthquake struck at the edge of the densely populated Osaka-Kyoto corridor in southwest Japan. We investigate how the earthquake transferred stress to nearby faults, altering their proximity to failure and thus changing earthquake probabilities. We find that relative to the pre-Kobe seismicity, Kobe aftershocks were concentrated in regions of calculated Coulomb stress increase and less common in regions of stress decrease. We quantify this relationship by forming the spatial correlation between the seismicity rate change and the Coulomb stress change. The correlation is significant for stress changes greater than 0.2-1.0 bars (0.02-0.1 MPa), and the nonlinear dependence of seismicity rate change on stress change is compatible with a state- and rate-dependent formulation for earthquake occurrence. We extend this analysis to future mainshocks by resolving the stress changes on major faults within 100 km of Kobe and calculating the change in probability caused by these stress changes. Transient effects of the stress changes are incorporated by the state-dependent constitutive relation, which amplifies the permanent stress changes during the aftershock period. Earthquake probability framed in this manner is highly time-dependent, much more so than is assumed in current practice. Because the probabilities depend on several poorly known parameters of the major faults, we estimate uncertainties of the probabilities by Monte Carlo simulation. This enables us to include uncertainties on the elapsed time since the last earthquake, the repeat time and its variability, and the period of aftershock decay. We estimate that a calculated 3-bar (0.3-MPa) stress increase on the eastern section of the Arima-Takatsuki Tectonic Line (ATTL) near Kyoto causes fivefold increase in the 30-year probability of a subsequent large earthquake near Kyoto; a 2-bar (0.2-MPa) stress decrease on the western section of the ATTL results in a reduction in probability by a factor of 140 to

  10. Refraction experiment in the Kobe-Hanshin area; Kobe Hanshin kan ni okeru kussetsuho tansa

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Koketsu, K [The University of Tokyo, Tokyo (Japan). Earthquake Research Institute

    1996-05-01

    The refraction experiments were conducted to investigate the underground structures reaching the basement by analyzing the results of the artificial earthquakes the explosion earthquake research group produced in City of Kobe and the Hanshin District on December 12 to 15, 1995. Considering that noise level can exceed 1 mkine in an urban area even in the mid-night, the courses of traverse were drawn focusing on Points S2 through S4 and U1. The earthquake waves from Points S2 through S4 are generally low in amplitude. However, the major components of the signals have a dominant frequency exceeding 10Hz, which makes them distinguishable from urban noise having a lower frequency, contrary to the previous indication that such a low-amplitude wave might not be distinguishable. On the other hand, the signals from the explosion at Point 4 in Awaji Island cannot be distinguished in the urban area, even on the nearby course of traverse D. At present, the analytical group is organized to read various phases running and analyze the P-velocity structures. 2 refs., 10 figs., 1 tab.

  11. Time series modelling of the Kobe-Osaka earthquake recordings

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    N. Singh

    2002-01-01

    generated by an earthquake. With a view of comparing these two types of waveforms, Singh (1992 developed a technique for identifying a model in time domain. Fortunately this technique has been found useful in modelling the recordings of the killer earthquake occurred in the Kobe-Osaka region of Japan at 5.46 am on 17 January, 1995. The aim of the present study is to show how well the method for identifying a model (developed by Singh (1992 can be used for describing the vibrations of the above mentioned earthquake recorded at Charters Towers in Queensland, Australia.

  12. Subsurface geology by shallow seismic reflection survey and microgravity survey in Kobe area; Senso hanshaho danseiha tansa oyobi seimitsu juryoku tansa ni yoru Kobe chiiki no chika chishitsu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Endo, H; Makino, M; Murata, Y; Watanabe, S [Geological Survey of Japan, Tsukuba (Japan)

    1996-05-01

    This paper reports discussions on subsurface structure of the Kobe area by means of microgravity survey. A Bouguer anomaly distribution graph was obtained (which is close to a near straight line) by measuring the gravity at measurement points with an interval of about 25 m along a traverse line (with a total length of about 1.7 km) in an approximately NNW-SSE direction crossing the downtown of the city of Kobe. Viewing the residuals to a straight line linking the values at both ends of the traverse line revealed that the gradient in the Bouguer anomaly distribution changes as if it is bent at a point near the center of the traverse line as a boundary. Deriving the residuals from fine changes seen in a distribution graph for the residuals made clear that this residual distribution has two discontinuous points. The paper indicates that the bending point in the former case corresponds to a reverse fault in a base bed of a flat land as compared with the result of model calculation on the base structure and gravity distribution. The discontinuous points in the latter case agree with positions of fault distribution derived by a reflection elastic wave survey. 6 refs., 4 figs.

  13. Disturbed mouse circadian rhythm before the Kobe EQ in 1995

    Science.gov (United States)

    Yokoi, Sayoko

    2013-04-01

    Legends of macro-anomalies before large earthquakes have been passed down for generations in Asia. Most of the statements on earthquake precursors are considered unreliable afterthoughts by traditional scientists. However, disturbed biological rhythms in mice were observed before the Kobe EQ in 1995 (Yokoi et al, 2003). The records of unusual mouse behavior before the earthquake were obtained to study biological clock at Institute for Protein Research, Osaka University. It is clarified that the disturbance was very rare phenomena statistically. Similar phenomenon was observed before the Wenchuan earthquake in 2008, too (Li et al, 2009). In the presentation, I will discuss the phenomena as one example of preseismic unusual animal behaviors.

  14. Discrete Scaling in Earthquake Precursory Phenomena: Evidence in the Kobe Earthquake, Japan

    Science.gov (United States)

    Johansen, Anders; Sornette, Didier; Wakita, Hiroshi; Tsunogai, Urumu; Newman, William I.; Saleur, Hubert

    1996-10-01

    We analyze the ion concentration of groundwater issuing from deep wells located near the epicenter of the recent earthquake of magnitude 6.9 near Kobe, Japan, on January 17, 1995. These concentrations are well fitted by log-periodic modulations around a leading power law. The exponent (real and imaginary parts) is very close to those already found for the fits of precursory seismic activity for Loma Prieta and the Aleutian Islands. This brings further support for the general hypothesis that complex critical exponents are a general phenomenon in irreversible self-organizing systems and particularly in rupture and earthquake phenomena. Nous analysons les fluctuations de concentrations ioniques de l'eau issue de puits profonds situés à proximité de l'épicentre du récent tremblement de terre de magnitude 6.9 proche de Kobe au Japon, le 17 janvier 1995. Ces fluctuations sont bien reproduites par des modulations log-périodiques autour d'une loi de puissance. Les parties réelle et imaginaire de l'exposant sont très proches de celles trouvées précédemment pour les tremblements de terre de Loma Prieta et des Iles Aléoutiennes. Ces résultats renforcent l'hypothèse que des exposants critiques complexes sont une propriété générale des phénomènes de croissance irréversible, et en particulier des problèmes de rupture et des tremblements de terre.

  15. Variation in radon exhalation from the ground on the active fault in Kobe

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Yasuoka, Y.; Shinogi, M. [Kobe Pharmaceutical Univ., Kobe, Hyogo (Japan)

    1998-12-31

    Since 27 January 1997, the measurements of radon (Rn-222) exhaled from the ground have been made continuously by the use of PICO-RAD detector (Packard instrument Co.) at monitoring stations on Ashiya active fault. The fault may have been slipped by the Kobe earthquake (magnitude 7.2, 17 January 1995). The variation of relative radon exhalation on the fault was large. We guessed the large variation of relative radon exhalation on the fault was caused by not only the influence of meteorology but also the influence of other factors. (author)

  16. Traffic supervisory/control system for Kobe-Awaji- Naruto expressway of Honshu-Shikoku Bridge Authority; Honshu Shikoku Renrakukyo Kodan nonyu no Kobe Awaji Naruto jidoshado kotsu kansei shisetsu seigyo system

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1999-03-01

    Toshiba delivered the traffic supervisory/control system for Kobe-Awaji-Naruto expressway of Honshu-Shikoku Bridge Authority opened in May 1998. This traffic supervisory system rapidly exactly collects and services the information on the expressway of 89km including Akashi Kaikyo bridge and O-Naruto bridge. The facility control system totally efficiently maintains and controls various facilities for lighting and air circulation of tunnels on the expressway. The previous control system transmitted road information on traffic volume and traffic congestion to offices by using specific lines and terminals, while this system with a monitoring function using intranet can easily service such information by existing PCs. (translated by NEDO)

  17. Traffic supervisory/control system for Kobe-Awaji- Naruto expressway of Honshu-Shikoku Bridge Authority. Honshu Shikoku Renrakukyo Kodan nonyu no Kobe Awaji Naruto jidoshado kotsu kansei shisetsu seigyo system

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    1999-03-01

    Toshiba delivered the traffic supervisory/control system for Kobe-Awaji-Naruto expressway of Honshu-Shikoku Bridge Authority opened in May 1998. This traffic supervisory system rapidly exactly collects and services the information on the expressway of 89km including Akashi Kaikyo bridge and O-Naruto bridge. The facility control system totally efficiently maintains and controls various facilities for lighting and air circulation of tunnels on the expressway. The previous control system transmitted road information on traffic volume and traffic congestion to offices by using specific lines and terminals, while this system with a monitoring function using intranet can easily service such information by existing PCs. (translated by NEDO)

  18. Prevalence and effects of rape myths in print journalism: the Kobe Bryant case.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Franiuk, Renae; Seefelt, Jennifer L; Cepress, Sandy L; Vandello, Joseph A

    2008-03-01

    Two studies examine the prevalence and effects of rape myths in the print media covering a real-life case of alleged sexual assault. Study 1 was an archival study of 156 sources from around the country. Articles about the Kobe Bryant case were coded for instances of rape myths, among other variables. Of the articles, 65 mentioned at least one rape myth (with "she's lying" being the single most common myth perpetuated). Study 2 assessed participants' (N = 62) prior knowledge of the Bryant case and exposed them to a myth-endorsing or myth-challenging article about the case. Those exposed to the myth-endorsing article were more likely to believe that Bryant was not guilty and the alleged victim was lying. The implications for victim reporting and reducing sexual assault in general are discussed.

  19. Unusual Childhood Waking as a Possible Precursor of the 1995 Kobe Earthquake

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Neil E. Whitehead

    2013-03-01

    Full Text Available Nearly 1,100 young students living in Japan at a range of distances up to 500 km from the 1995 Kobe M7 earthquake were interviewed. A statistically significant abnormal rate of early wakening before the earthquake was found, having exponential decrease with distance and a half value approaching 100 km, but decreasing much slower than from a point source such as an epicentre; instead originating from an extended area of more than 100 km in diameter. Because an improbably high amount of variance is explained, this effect is unlikely to be simply psychological and must reflect another mechanism—perhaps Ultra-Low Frequency (ULF electromagnetic waves creating anxiety—but probably not 222Rn excess. Other work reviewed suggests these conclusions may be valid for animals in general, not just children, but would be very difficult to apply for practical earthquake prediction.

  20. Comparisons of Source Characteristics between Recent Inland Crustal Earthquake Sequences inside and outside of Niigata-Kobe Tectonic Zone, Japan

    Science.gov (United States)

    Somei, K.; Asano, K.; Iwata, T.; Miyakoshi, K.

    2012-12-01

    After the 1995 Kobe earthquake, many M7-class inland earthquakes occurred in Japan. Some of those events (e.g., the 2004 Chuetsu earthquake) occurred in a tectonic zone which is characterized as a high strain rate zone by the GPS observation (Sagiya et al., 2000) or dense distribution of active faults. That belt-like zone along the coast in Japan Sea side of Tohoku and Chubu districts, and north of Kinki district, is called as the Niigata-Kobe tectonic zone (NKTZ, Sagiya et al, 2000). We investigate seismic scaling relationship for recent inland crustal earthquake sequences in Japan and compare source characteristics between events occurring inside and outside of NKTZ. We used S-wave coda part for estimating source spectra. Source spectral ratio is obtained by S-wave coda spectral ratio between the records of large and small events occurring close to each other from nation-wide strong motion network (K-NET and KiK-net) and broad-band seismic network (F-net) to remove propagation-path and site effects. We carefully examined the commonality of the decay of coda envelopes between event-pair records and modeled the observed spectral ratio by the source spectral ratio function with assuming omega-square source model for large and small events. We estimated the corner frequencies and seismic moment (ratio) from those modeled spectral ratio function. We determined Brune's stress drops of 356 events (Mw: 3.1-6.9) in ten earthquake sequences occurring in NKTZ and six sequences occurring outside of NKTZ. Most of source spectra obey omega-square source spectra. There is no obvious systematic difference between stress drops of events in NKTZ zone and others. We may conclude that the systematic tendency of seismic source scaling of the events occurred inside and outside of NKTZ does not exist and the average source scaling relationship can be effective for inland crustal earthquakes. Acknowledgements: Waveform data were provided from K-NET, KiK-net and F-net operated by

  1. Etiology and prevalence rate of bilateral sensorineural hearing impairment in children born in Kobe city over a 10 year period

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Yoshioka, Mieko; Naito, Yashushi

    2008-01-01

    The study was carried out on children born over a 10 year period from 1997 to 2006 in Kobe city and referred to our center for specialist audiological assessment. A total of 107 cases had a bilateral sensorineural hearing impairment averaging 25 dB or over in the better hearing ear during the study period. To ascertain causes of sensorineural hearing impairment, full medical histories were obtained with detailed family history relevant to hearing impairment and perinatal course for adverse etiological factors. The children were investigated for possible congenital infection and chromosomal anomalies. Children with positive family history of deafness in parents or siblings constituted 11.2% of cases (genetic group). Other etiological groups showed the following distribution: syndromal group 5.6%; inner ear anomalies 5.6%; perinatal group 13.1%; congenital infection 11.2%; chromosomal anomalies 16.8%; multiple congenital anomalies 5.6%; causes unknown 30.9%. The high incidence of causes unknown indicates that steps should be taken to yield a diagnosis. The total number of children born in Kobe city was 117,896 during the period from 1997 to 2005, which gave a prevalence rate of hearing impairment of 0.87/1,000 births. Newborn hearing screening identified many children earlier and also provide the opportunity to finetune the evaluation. (author)

  2. Disaster resilience and population ageing: the 1995 Kobe and 2004 Chuetsu earthquakes in Japan.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Chen, Haili; Maki, Norio; Hayashi, Haruo

    2014-04-01

    This paper provides a framework for evaluating the effects of population ageing on disaster resilience. In so doing, it focuses on the 1995 Kobe and 2004 Chuetsu earthquakes, two major disasters that affected Japan before the 2011 Great East Japan earthquake. It analyses regional population recovery on the basis of pre-disaster and post-recovery demographic characteristics using defined transition patterns of population ageing. The evaluation framework demonstrates that various recovery measures make different contributions to disaster resilience for each transition pattern of population ageing. With reference to regional population ageing, the framework allows for a prediction of disaster resilience, facilitating place vulnerability assessments and potentially informing policy-making strategies for Japan and other countries with ageing populations. © 2014 The Author(s). Disasters © Overseas Development Institute, 2014.

  3. Prediction of velocity of the wind generation in Kobe City College of Technology; Kobe Kosen ni okeru furyoku hatsuden no yosoku

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Akamatsu, K; Kanemura, M; Amako, K

    1997-11-25

    Wind conditions, such as average wind velocity for 10 minutes, maximum instantaneous wind velocity and wind directions, are measured by the anemometer and anemoscope installed 3m above the roof of the Kobe City College of Technology`s Information Processing Center building, to collect the data necessary to validate possibility of wind power generation, if the wind system is installed in the college site. Monthly availability of power is estimated from the output power characteristics curve for a generator having a rated capacity of 200W and wind velocity data collected for 9 months. It will generate power of only 144kWh, even when operated to give the rated output, or approximately 8.5kWh at the highest in a month, because of availability of wind power limited to around 30% of the total as estimated from the relative frequency distribution. It is therefore desirable to install a number of units having a rated capacity of 200W or else a smaller number of larger units. Assuming that days that give the highest output for 24 hours last 1 month, a power of 54.3kWh will be generated. It is estimated, based on these results, that a hybrid unit, in which a wind power generator installed at a high place is combined with a solar unit, can provide power required for nighttime lighting, if a wind power unit having a rated capacity of 2kW is field-controlled under an optimum condition. 13 figs., 3 tabs.

  4. Cosmic ray test system for the ATLAS thin gap chamber modules at KOBE

    CERN Document Server

    Suigmoto, T; Arataki, Y; Bando, T; Homma, Y; Ichimiya, R; Ikeno, M; Ishii, K; Ishino, M; Iwasaki, H; Kurashige, H; Mima, T; Miyazaki, Y; Nakagawa, Y; Nakaune, Y; Nozaki, M; Ohshita, H; Okumura, K; Sasaki, O; Suzuki, R; Takeda, H; Takeshita, T; Tanaka, S; Uda, J; Yokoyama, C

    2004-01-01

    Thin gap chamber modules giving function of forward muon trigger to the ATLAS detector in the LHC experiment have been constructed at High Energy Research Organization (KEK) in Japan and their performances have been checked at Kobe University. A large-scale test system specially designed for measuring uniformity of the detection efficiencies and the timing resolution of 8 TGC modules at the same time was successfully operated. Each TGC module had 72 anode wire channels and 64 cathode strip channels (in total 1088 readout channels for 8 modules). Drift tubes consisted of 12 layers (total 428 tubes), between which the TGC modules are put, determined trajectories of cosmic rays. Hit pattern and timing of all detector signals (Trigger counter. Drift tubes and TGCs) were measured by using VME modules. In regular data acquisition situation, i.e. about effective 19 Hz trigger rate from scintillation counters and 73% tracking efficiency by the drift tubes, the detection efficiency of each layer by 5 mm * 5 mm region ...

  5. A gamma-ray approach for hidden faults in the disaster zone of 1995 Kobe earthquake

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Terakado, Y.

    1997-01-01

    Gamma-ray intensities were measured of the ground on an eastern part of the Kobe urban area, where a strong earthquake occurred in January 1995 killing 6000 people, in order to investigate hidden faults and its relation to the damage of constructions. Several linear alignments of relatively high γ-ray intensity points were detected and at least some of them are considered to be ascribed to small-scale faults. It can be pointed out that the localities of such high γ-ray alignments are almost in accordance with those of relatively highly damaged zones. However, a long and distinct high γ-ray alignment as expected for a large fault which runs through the heavy damage belt does not exist beneath the area, supporting non-fault origin for the overall heavy damage belt. (author)

  6. [Association between daily lifestyle and the risk of metabolic syndrome among young adults in Japan. An analysis of Kobe city young adult health examination data].

    Science.gov (United States)

    Soga, Youji; Shirai, Chika; Ijichi, Akihiro

    2013-02-01

    Appropriate lifestyle modifications through health guidance and other methods are known to be effective in preventing lifestyle-related diseases. Furthermore, early intervention is key. To examine the association between daily lifestyle and the risk of metabolic syndrome among young adults in Japan, we analyzed data from the Kobe City Young Adult Health Examination. We examined 4,912 adults aged 30 to 39 years to identify the association between daily lifestyle and the risk of metabolic syndrome. Daily lifestyle was assessed from 11 lifestyle-related items in the questionnaire administered during the health exam. The Standard Health Exam and Guidance Program by the Ministry of Health and Labor was used to determine the risks of abdominal obesity, hypertension, diabetes, and hypercholesterolemia. Having a risk related to metabolic syndrome was defined as having a risk of abdominal obesity combined with a risk of hypertension, diabetes, or hypercholesterolemia. We also evaluated the stages of behavioral change in those who possessed a risk of metabolic syndrome, as well as their willingness to receive health guidance. Eating quickly had a significantly greater association with-risk of metabolic syndrome, for both sexes, than eating slowly or at a normal pace. For women, smoking, skipping breakfast more than three days a week, and eating supper within two hours before going to bed for more than three days a week were associated with risk of metabolic syndrome. A multiple regression analysis showed that skipping breakfast (P adults in their thirties in Kobe, irregular eating habits seemed to be associated with risk of metabolic syndrome. Furthermore, their intention to/awareness of the need to change their behavior and their willingness to receive health guidance were rather strong. Thus, for the "Tokutei kenshin (specific national health checkup system)" to achieve its objective of preventing lifestyle-related diseases more effectively than at present, the target

  7. Criticality features in ultra-low frequency magnetic fields prior to the 2013 M6.3 Kobe earthquake

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Stelios M. Potirakis

    2016-07-01

    Full Text Available The nonlinear criticality of ultra-low frequency (ULF magnetic variations is investigated before a particular earthquake (EQ occurred in Kobe on April 12, 2013, by applying the “natural time” analysis on a few ULF parameters: Fh, Fz and Dh. The first two refer to radiation from the lithosphere, and the last parameter corresponds to depression of horizontal component as a signature of ionospheric perturbation. A recent paper of our team has indicated, using the same data as in this paper but by means of conventional statistical analysis, a clear effect of depression in the horizontal component as an ionospheric signature. But there seems to be no convincing signature of lithospheric ULF radiation according to the specific analysis, so this paper aims at extending our study on the electromagnetic data recorded prior to the specific EQ by trying to find any significant phenomenon in ULF effects (both lithospheric radiation and the depression of horizontal component using the critical, natural time analysis. The natural time analysis has yielded that criticality at Shigaraki (SGA, as the station closest to the EQ epicenter, is reached on March 27-29 for Fh and March 27 to April 1 for Fz (about two weeks before the EQ. But, the criticality for Dh was not observed at SGA probably due to high noise, on the other hand such criticality was observed at Kanoya (KNY because of its known property of a wider range of detection of ULF depression.

  8. Study on the characteristics of earthquake ground motion in the Hanshin area based on microtremor measurements; Bido kansoku ni motozuku Hanshin chiiki no jiban shindo tokusei ni kansuru kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Suzuki, H; Seo, K; Yamanaka, H [Tokyo Institute of Technology, Tokyo (Japan)

    1997-05-27

    The Hyogoken-nanbu earthquake in 1995 was a local earthquake that has hit directly a large urban area, having caused damages the greatest since the War mainly in the city of Kobe. The present study has noticed the areas of Sumiyoshi, Nada Ward, Kobe City and Nanbu, Nishinomiya City where damages show different distribution; elucidated the characteristics of earthquake ground motion based on microtremor measurements; and discussed the relation thereof with the earthquake damage distribution. It was verified that microtremors and seismic motions are in rough agreement in the Sumiyoshi area, by comparing and discussing the spectrum ratio between the microtremors and the seismic motions. No correspondence was recognized in the Sumiyoshi area between distribution of the average microtremor spectrum ratio with cycles of 0.2 to 0.8 second and distribution of damages caused by the Hyogoken-nanbu earthquake. The ground characteristics evaluation alone is insufficient to explain distribution of the damages in a relatively wide range in the city of Nishinomiya, for which effects of distance decay should be taken into consideration. 6 refs., 7 figs.

  9. Power load leveling and energy saving measures for office buildings. Power load leveling and energy saving technology for the new building of the Kobe branch of the Kansai Electric Power Co., and its effect; Office biru no denryoku fuka heijunka sho energy hosaku. Kobe shiten shinshaoku ni okeru denryoku fuka heijunka sho energy gijutsu to sono koka

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Tsuchiyama, M. [Kansai Electric Power Co. Inc., Osaka (Japan)

    1999-06-10

    This paper presents power load leveling and energy saving measures for heat source, air conditioning and lighting of the new Kobe branch building. The low-temperature hot-air system adopts an ice storage system, and reduces blowing power by 12 degreesC blowing in place of normal 16 degreesC blowing, and an initial cost by duct size reduction. The continuous air conditioning system levels an initial peak load of air conditioning as compared with normal air conditioning only for working hours for buildings with large heat capacity. In addition, as power load leveling measures for the whole building, the complete heat storage system using an underground internal melting type ice storage tank is adopted. Energy saving for lighting is achieved with a dimming lighting controlling its lighting output by inverter. The following effects are expected by these new technologies: Load leveling effect of 30%, energy saving effect of 20.2% and CO{sub 2} reduction effect of 24.1%. (NEDO)

  10. Seismic risk assessment of building based on damaged database of 1995 Hyogoken Nanbu Earthquake; Hyogoken nanbu jishin no hisai database wo mochiita kenchikubutsu no jishin risk hyoka ni kansuru kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Suwa, H.; Nobata, A.; Seki, M. [Obayashi Corp., Tokyo (Japan)

    2000-01-10

    The objective of this paper is to evaluate a vulnerability function and a repair cost in terms of each structural damage level based on the damaged database of the 1995 Hyogoken Nanbu Earthquake. The seismic risk of a building in Kobe is calculated through the analytical results. As a result, the following are verified : 1. The expectation of vulnerability function, in which peak ground acceleration is taken for seismic intensity, is about 550 cm/s{sup 2} for minor damage, about 700 cm/s{sup 2} for moderate damage, and about 950 cm/s{sup 2} for major damage respectively. However, the coefficient of variation (C. O. V. ) is about 0.5 for all damage levels. 2. The expectation of repair cost per square meter is about 29000 yen for minor damage, about 60000 yen for moderate damage, and about 64000 yen for major damage respectively. However, the variation is very large, for example, the C. O. V. for repair cost varies from 1.2 to 1.6. 3. The seismic risk of a building in Kobe, that is normalized by new construction cost, is about three percent on condition that the design lifetime is assumed to be 50 years. (author)

  11. Modulation of splicing of the preceding intron by antisense oligonucleotide complementary to intra-exon sequence deleted in dystrophin Kobe

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Takeshima, Y.; Matuso, M.; Sakamoto, H.; Nishio, H. [Kobe Univ. School of Medicine and Science (Japan)

    1994-09-01

    Molecular analysis of dystrophin Kobe showed that exon 19 of the dystrophin gene bearing a 52 bp deletion was skipped during splicing, although the known consensus sequences at the 5{prime} and 3{prime} splice site of exon 19 were maintained. These data suggest that the deleted sequence of exon 19 may function as a cis-acting factor for exact splicing for the upstream intron. To investigate this potential role, an in vitro splicing system using dystrophin precursors was established. A two-exon precursor containing exon 18, truncated intron 18, and exon 19 was accurately spliced. However, splicing of intron 18 was dramatically inhibited when wild exon 19 was replaced with mutated exon 19. Even though the length of exon 19 was restored to normal by replacing the deleted sequence with other sequence, splicing of intron 18 was not fully reactivated. Characteristically, splicing of intron 18 was inactivated more markedly when the replaced sequence contained less polypurine stretches. These data suggested that modification of the exon sequence would result in a splicing abnormality. Antisense 31 mer 2`-O-methyl ribonucleotide was targeted against 5{prime} end of deleted region of exon 19 to modulate splicing of the mRNA precursor. Splicing of intron 18 was inhibited in a dose- and time-dependent manner. This is the first in vitro evidence to show splicing of dystrophin pre-mRNA can be managed by antisense oligonucleotides. These experiments represent an approach in which antisense oligonucleotides are used to restore the function of a defective dystrophin gene in Duchenne muscular dystrophy by inducing skipping of certain exons during splicing.

  12. Report on achievements in fiscal 1999 on research and development of the Welfare Techno-system (Chuo Ward, Kobe); 1999 nendo Welfare Techno system kenkyu kaihatsu (Kobe-shi Chuo-ku) seika hokokusho

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    2000-03-01

    Research and development has been performed on a help and welfare system to transmit and accumulate monitoring data by utilizing a computer system. This paper summarizes the achievements in fiscal 1999. In the research of transmission and management of information on help requiring persons, a server and its peripheral devices were modified to structure a system to measure body temperatures, pulses, and blood pressures, and transmit them to a central server. In the research on support for the visiting helps, a mobile system was developed, which has map information and scheduling function that shows distribution of help requiring persons. In the research of a simulation to link hospitals, medical organizations and homes, the LAN at health facilities for elderly people was structured, and so was a network for linking hospitals, medical organizations and homes (simulated). Investigations and discussions were performed on interface between body information (vital data) measuring instruments and personal computers. Developmental research was executed on private certification office servers and the certification software that consider security in the help systems. (NEDO)

  13. Fiscal 2000 report on results of R and D of welfare techno-system in West Ward, Kobe City; 2000 nendo walfare techno system kenkyu kaihatsu (Kobe-shi Nishi-ku) seika hokokusho

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    2001-03-01

    R and D was conducted on devices for promoting self-support, mitigating nursing care, and improving safety and comfort for the elderly and the disabled, with the fiscal 2000 results reported. In the development of a wheelchair system (small arm sling mountable on a wheelchair) capable of assisting self-support for eating and vocational activity at home, a mounting device of an arm sling was experimentally manufactured for five different types of wheelchairs. In the research on the welfare device support system at a disaster or emergency, the system was modified based on the result of the system operation in the preceding year. Consequently, it became possible to make use of a power from a solar battery, a storage battery and an utility line, and also to reduce instantaneous interruption caused by switching of the self-sustaining operation for example. Further, a load control adaptor linked with an inverter was developed, enabling the system to use electricity for a long period even at the time of power failure. In addition, a conventional simple charge/discharge control was found to cause a marked deterioration in storage cell properties; hence, an accurate charge controller was added. (NEDO)

  14. Fiscal 2000 report on results of R and D of welfare techno-system in Chuo Ward, Kobe City; 2000 nendo walfare techno system kenkyu kaihatsu (Kobe-shi Chuo-ku) seika hokokusho

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    2001-03-01

    'R and D on systems for supporting care and welfare through transmission and accumulation of monitored data' was conducted for the purpose of assisting the operation of service providers for the elderly in need of care and supporting nursing care at home and at facilities, for which the results in fiscal 2000 was reported. In the development of vital data measuring devices and inter-computer interfaces, a USB or IEEE1394 interface was developed which was for automatically inputting, into personal computers (PC), the information such as body temperature, heart rate and blood pressure of a person requiring care; and the interface was incorporated in the system. In the research on support for home visit care centers, a geographic information system (GIS) and data were selected, which were to be installed on server's side, with linkage with portable PC's carried out. However, it was pointed out that data transmission took time between the server in the center and the portable PC at a home to visit. Further, investigative research on care services at facilities under the care insurance system was conducted, as were studies on linkage between general practitioners and hospitals, and studies on prevention of illegal access and wiretapping, among others. (NEDO)

  15. Report on achievements in fiscal 1999 on research and development of the Welfare Techno-system (Nishi Ward, Kobe); 1999 nendo Welfare Techno system kenkyu kaihatsu (Kobe-shi Nishi-ku) seika hokokusho

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    2000-03-01

    Research and development has been performed on devices to enhance autonomy, safety and comfort for elderly and handicapped people in houses and homes. This paper summarizes the achievements in fiscal 1999. In developing wheelchairs to allow autonomy in meal taking and working at homes, a small upper arm holding device that can be installed on a wheelchair was fabricated on the trial basis according to the experience obtained in making the first prototype in the previous fiscal year, and clinical evaluation was given. In the research and development on a safe walk assisting appliance for elderly and handicapped people, development, improvement and trial fabrication were carried out on a caster in which the brake will not work during walking, but it works automatically in a sudden movement such as falling down. In developing an environment information transmitting system for elderly and handicapped people, a first prototype fabrication was performed on a system to detect sound of an alarm or vibration caused by knocking a door, and convey information to elderly and handicapped people by utilizing the communication services including the commercially available cellular phones. In the research on a welfare device support system for use in disaster and emergency, design and structuring were carried out on a nighttime electric power utilizing system having solar cells combined with storage batteries. Related data were measured. (NEDO)

  16. マルクスの「現実の資本の過剰生産」概念について

    OpenAIRE

    松尾, 純; Jun, Matsuo; 桃山学院大学経済学部

    2008-01-01

    Professor Noriko Maehata and I have been engaged in discussions concerning the understanding of the concept of "actual overproduction of capital" as contained in Karl Marx's Das Kapital Volume III. The discussion originated in Professor Maehata's criticism("'Law of the Tendency of the Rate of Profit to Fall' and 'Absolute Overproduction of Capital' - An Issue in Research on the Theory of Crisis," Economic Society of Rikkyo University(Rikkyo Keizai Gaku Kenkyu), Vol. 55, No. 1, July 2001)of my...

  17. A 3D analysis of spatial relationship between geological structure and groundwater profile around Kobe City, Japan: based on ARCGIS 3D Analyst.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Shibahara, A.; Tsukamoto, H.; Kazahaya, K.; Morikawa, N.; Takahashi, M.; Takahashi, H.; Yasuhara, M.; Ohwada, M.; Oyama, Y.; Inamura, A.; Handa, H.; Nakama, J.

    2008-12-01

    Kobe city is located on the northern side of Osaka sedimentary basin, Japan, containing 1,000-2,000 m thick Quaternary sediments. After the Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake (January 17, 1995), a number of geological and geophysical surveys were conducted in this region. Then high-temperature anomaly of groundwater accompanied with high Cl concentration was detected along fault systems in this area. In addition, dissolved He in groundwater showed nearly upper mantle-like 3He/4He ratio, although there were no Quaternary volcanic activities in this region. Some recent studies have assumed that these groundwater profiles are related with geological structure because some faults and joints can function as pathways for groundwater flow, and mantle-derived water can upwell through the fault system to the ground surface. To verify these hypotheses, we established 3D geological and hydrological model around Osaka sedimentary basin. Our primary goal is to analyze spatial relationship between geological structure and groundwater profile. In the study region, a number of geological and hydrological datasets, such as boring log data, seismic profiling data, groundwater chemical profile, were reported. We converted these datasets to meshed data on the GIS, and plotted in the three dimensional space to visualize spatial distribution. Furthermore, we projected seismic profiling data into three dimensional space and calculated distance between faults and sampling points, using Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) scripts. All 3D models are converted into VRML format, and can be used as a versatile dataset on personal computer. This research project has been conducted under the research contract with the Japan Nuclear Energy Safety Organization (JNES).

  18. Estimation of underground structures in the Osaka-Kobe area by array-network observations of microtremors; Bido no array kansoku ni yoru Osaka-Hyogo chiiki no chika kozo no suitei

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Okada, H; Ishikawa, K; Ling, S [Hokkaido University, Sapporo (Japan); Sasabe, K [Ministry of Construction, Tokyo (Japan)

    1997-05-27

    Microtremor observations have been carried out with an objective to estimate underground structures including the foundation depth in the Osaka-Kobe area which has been greatly damaged by the Hyogoken-nanbu earthquake in 1995. Different organizations have made seismic surveys and boring investigations in this area, by which elucidation has been made on the underground structures. The present observations are intended to identify S-wave velocity distribution in a wide area from the ground surface to the foundation, which is difficult to be verified by using conventional surveys and investigations. Methods to detect surface waves which are contained in microtremors include the frequency-wave number method (the F-K method) and the spatial autocorrelation method (the SPAC method). The SPAC method can estimate phase velocities of longer waves for the size of an array than with the F-K method, and is more advantageous in estimating ground structures at greater depths. S-wave velocity structure was estimated down to the foundation rocks existing in depths of about 0.5 to 2.0 km. For estimating the phase velocities in Raleigh waves, the SPAC method and the expanded spatial autocorrelation method were used. The underground structures thus derived showed a good agreement with the results of explorations using other methods. 8 figs., 1 tab.

  19. Estimation of site effects in Higashinada Ward, Kobe City using aftershock records of the 1995 Hyogo-Ken Nanbu Earthquake; Hyogoken nanbu jishin no yoshin kiroku wo mochiita Kobeshihigashinadaku no jiban zofuku tokusei no hyoka

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kurita, K.; Yamanaka, H.; Seo, K. [Tokyo Inst. of Tech. (Japan)

    1998-07-30

    Source spectra and site effects are separated using the aftershock records, and the characteristics of short period earthquake motion in Higashinada Ward, Kobe City including the area to the south of seismic intensity 7 area are investigated placing emphasis on how far the site effects can be explained by 1-D ground structure. The shape and amplitude of the site effect of KNN and KYC located outside the seismic intensity 7 area can be explained fairly well by 1-D multiple reflection theory of S wave. However, peaks near 3 to 4Hz of KNN and UOZ in seismic intensity 7 area can not be explained. This suggests that the site effects of seismic intensity 7 area obtained by the aftershock records might include 2-D effects of underground structure. Inversion is performed using site effects as the objective functions to determine S wave velocity structure and Qs in the sedimentary layer. S wave velocity structure shows no systematical difference from those of the past models. 22 refs., 13 figs., 2 tabs.

  20. The miracle of a mountain moving out to the sea: the creation of new human space.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Kuroda, T

    1985-10-01

    Port Island is an artificial island made up of sand and soil from Mount Takakura in the Rokko mountain range of Japan. The materials were carried to the coast of Suma a distance of 7.1 kilometers by a specially devised overhead conveyor belt from Kobe City. Work on the island still continues today. On the average, 7000 dump trucks a day have been mobilized at the conveyor belt facilities. The materials are transported from the coast by pusher-barges that have specially designed bottoms that open and dump the building materials on the sea bed. The island is linked to Kobe City by a huge bridge. It is serviced by a fully automatic monorail. A new city was also created at the site where the sand and soil were removed. A joint study with the Kobe City authority and local experts under the support and cooperation of the United Nations Fund for Population Activities (UNFPA) was initiated. The administrative structure and financing required of a project of this magnitude need to be examined. The organizational structure and management style of local governments undertaking the project were non-bureaucratic, efficient and flexible. Kobe City authorities secured the necessary funds by issuing the German mark bond. A research on Kobe City and the redistribution of population is planned. More living space and better living conditions resulted from the project.

  1. Utilization of steel bellows expansion joints to improve the earthquake resistance of pipelines and piping-systems; Einsatz von Stahlkompensatoren zur Erhoehung der Erdbebensicherheit von Rohrleitungen und Rohrsystemen

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Silbe, H. [IWK Regler und Kompensatoren GmbH, Berlin (Germany). Ingenieurbuero

    2001-07-01

    Seismic damages of lifelines could cause catastrophic consequences for life and environment. Defects in the gas system could be the reason for fires, the lack of water because of broken water pipes leads to problems in fire-fighting. The loss of potable water service could cause epidemics, further a preventing energy transmission and media service in hospitals could lead to difficulties in the medical treatment of victims. For instants during the Kobe 1995 earthquake, Kobe's water system sustained approximately 2000 breaks. The resulting lack of water contributed significantly to the fire problem due to the damages of Kobe's gas system. (orig.) [German] Erdbebenbedingte Schaeden an Versorgungsleitungen koennen katastrophale Folgen fuer Menschen und Umwelt hervorrufen. Defekte Gasleitungen koennen Ursache fuer Grossbraende sein, deren Bekaempfung durch zerstoerte Wasserversorgungsleitungen erschwert oder unmoeglich ist, eine unterbrochene Trinkwasserversorgung kann zu Epidemien fuehren, nicht zuletzt kann eine unterbrochene Energie- bzw. Medienversorgung in Krankenhaeusern zu Problemen bei der Versorgung von Verletzten fuehren. Das Wassernetz Kobes erfuhr beispielsweise infolge des Erdbebens 1995 mehr als 2000 Brueche. Wegen des zerstoerten Wasserversorgungsnetzes war eine Bekaempfung des Grossfeuers, hervorgerufen durch Brueche im Gasnetz, nicht moeglich. (orig.)

  2. Study of street-blockades caused by a large earthquake; Daishinsaiji ni okeru doro heisoku ni knsuru kenkyu (Hanshin Awaji daishinsai ni okeru jittai bunseki)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Imaizumi, K. [Kajima Corp., Tokyo (Japan); Asami, Y. [The University of Tokyo, Tokyo (Japan)

    1999-09-30

    The Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake caused great damage to roads. Not only on highways, but even in regional communities, a considerable number of streets became unusable because of falls of buildings, etc. to roads and occurrence of bumps. It provided obstacles in refuge and rescue activities. In building cities preparing for earthquake in future, it is important to re-evaluate how to make the road network including narrow streets. Therefore, paying attention to the physical distance of the roads in earthquake and the number of the points which people cannot reach, clarified was the relation between those phenomena and the characteristics of towns/roads which the region has. As an example of Higashinada-ward, Kobe-city, this report analyzed the data on the actual state from the aspects written below which become especially important in actions taken immediately after earthquake, and described the information/knowledge obtained therefrom: (1) difference in arrival distance between usually and in earthquake in case of walking from residence place to refuge place; (2) state of occurrence of the points where people cannot reach in going to hospitals by ambulance. (NEDO)

  3. 38-year-old woman with recurrent abdominal pain, but no fever

    OpenAIRE

    Iwata, Kentaro; Toma, Tomoko; Yachie, Akihiro

    2012-01-01

    Kentaro Iwata1, Tomoko Toma2, Akihiro Yachie21Department of Infectious Diseases, Kobe University Hospital, Kobe, Japan; 2Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medical Science and School of Medicine, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, JapanAbstract: A 38-year-old woman presented with 2 days history of left-flank pain. She had similar episodes of abdominal pain as well as chest pain several times, but symptoms disappeared spontaneously. Each time she developed pain, there was no fever. After...

  4. Echo intensity obtained from ultrasonography images reflecting muscle strength in elderly men

    OpenAIRE

    Watanabe, Yuya; Yamada,Yosuke; Fukumoto,; Yokoyama,Keiichi; Yoshida,Tsukasa; Miyake,; Yamagata,Emi; Kimura,; Ishihara,

    2013-01-01

    Yuya Watanabe,1 Yosuke Yamada,1,2 Yoshihiro Fukumoto,3 Tatsuro Ishihara,4 Keiichi Yokoyama,1 Tsukasa Yoshida,1 Motoko Miyake,1 Emi Yamagata,5 Misaka Kimura1 1Laboratory of Sports and Health Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan; 2Research Fellow, Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, Tokyo, Japan; 3Faculty of Rehabilitation, Kobe Gakuin University, Kobe, Japan; 4Faculty of Health and Sports Science, Doshisha University, Kyoto, Japan; 5Laboratory of Gerontologic...

  5. Seismic response time history analyses for KALIMER building with a horizontal and vertical seismic isolation

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Lee, J. H.; Yoo, B.; Koo, K. H.

    2001-01-01

    The seismic response time history analyses for the lumped mass models of KALIMER reactor building with a horizontal and vertical seismic isolation are performed for Artificial Time History and Kobe earthquake. The vertical amplification by the horizontal isolation is reduced by a vertical isolation for both earthquakes. The 3% viscous damping and the vertical isolation frequency of 1.5Hz gives a reduced vertical response compared to the fixed base condition at reactor support, and the 9% viscous damping to Kobe earthquake is required to get an equivalent vertical response with a fixed base condition

  6. 神戸女学院音楽部レッスン帳(1907-1923)の資料的価値とその内実

    OpenAIRE

    津上, 智実

    2010-01-01

    This paper reports on a document newly found in the Music Library of Kobe College. It is the 'Music Lesson Record of the Music School, Kobe College for 1907 to 1923', which contains precise records of the music lessons in each school term, given to eighty-eight students in total, from shortly after the establishment of the Music School in 1906. Each page of this book is divided into five columns: 1) the instrument or the subject in which the lesson was given: organ, piano,singing, theory and...

  7. Seismic response time history analyses for KALIMER building with a horizontal and vertical seismic isolation

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Lee, J. H.; Yoo, B.; Koo, K. H. [KAERI, Taejon (Korea, Republic of)

    2001-05-01

    The seismic response time history analyses for the lumped mass models of KALIMER reactor building with a horizontal and vertical seismic isolation are performed for Artificial Time History and Kobe earthquake. The vertical amplification by the horizontal isolation is reduced by a vertical isolation for both earthquakes. The 3% viscous damping and the vertical isolation frequency of 1.5Hz gives a reduced vertical response compared to the fixed base condition at reactor support, and the 9% viscous damping to Kobe earthquake is required to get an equivalent vertical response with a fixed base condition.

  8. Nuclear energy: what to do with it

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Laramee, V.

    1996-01-01

    In this article are detailed all the uses of radioactivity in human activities: nuclear medicine with diagnostic uses and therapeutic uses, irradiation of foods to preserve or sterilize them, determination of soldering quality, preservation of cultural objects by sterilization and age determination by carbon 14 use, the last possibility is actually the prevention of earthquakes since the japanese have discovered that before the Kobe earthquake, the radon rate had increased in water of Kobe, a survey of this radioactive gas should contribute to anticipate earth tremors. (N.C.)

  9. Achievement report for fiscal 1998 on Welfare Technosystem Kobe-Chuo-Ku research and development; 1998 nendo Walfare technosystem kenkyu kaihatsu (Kobeshi Chuo-ku) seika hokokusho

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1999-03-01

    Research on the transmission and management of information on those who necessitate nursing care will lead to the development of computer-aided nursing and welfare supporting systems and this in turn will help businesses who provide aged people with service they require for the enhancement of nursing care at home and at facilities for aged people to enjoy independent, unaided living. It is important to prepare liaising methods and coordinate with physicians in case of physical condition suddenly turning worse. Exchange of data at a visited place is important for a visiting nurse, and handling of information on such an occasion has to be easy and rapid to ensure high efficiency. When transmitting or receiving data on patients via PHS (personal handyphone system) or handyphone system, transmission of large-capacity data such as pictures should be avoided. In case a picture has to be transmitted, it should be compressed. ISDN (integrated services digital network) is preferred in all cases. The IEEE1394 interface is deemed to be the best for automatically transmitting as digital data the pictures etc. collected from other measuring instruments on nursing welfare and nursing assisting systems. It is necessary, however, to watch the development of digital interfaces in the future. (NEDO)

  10. Comparison of the effect between pegaptanib and ranibizumab on exudative age-related macular degeneration with small lesion size

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Fujihara M

    2012-03-01

    Full Text Available Yoshihiro Nishimura1,2, Maiko Taguchi1, Takafumi Nagai1, Masashi Fujihara1,2, Shigeru Honda2, Mamoru Uenishi11Department of Ophthalmology, Mitsubishi Kobe Hospital, Kobe, Japan; 2Department of Surgery, Division of Ophthalmology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, JapanPurpose: To compare the effect of pegaptanib versus ranibizumab on exudative age-related macular degeneration (AMD with small lesion size.Methods: This is a retrospective study of 81 eyes from 78 patients with exudative AMD treated and followed up over 12 months. Patients with baseline best corrected visual acuity (BCVA under 20/400 and with a greatest linear dimension of lesion over 4500 µm were excluded from the study. Twenty-six eyes from 25 patients were treated with three consecutive intravitreal injections of pegaptanib (IVP group and 55 eyes from 54 patients were treated with three consecutive ranibizumab injections (IVR group. Each therapy was repeated as needed. The alteration in BCVA was evaluated in the IVP and IVR groups.Results: No differences were detected in baseline parameters between the IVP and IVR groups. The mean BCVA (logMAR at month 1, 3, 6 and 12 after the initial treatment was improved from baseline in the IVP group (-0.095, -0.17, -0.18 and -0.18, respectively and in the IVR group (-0.077, -0.15, -0.17 and -0.11, respectively, which was statistically significant. There was no difference in the change in mean BCVA between IVP and IVR groups at the same time periods.Conclusions: The visual outcome of IVP was equivalent with IVR in exudative AMD with small lesion size.Keywords: pegaptanib, ranibizumab, age-related macular degeneration, small lesion size

  11. Primary hyperparathyroidism at nishi kobe medical center

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Omori, Koichi; Yamashita, Masaru; Kishimoto, Masanao; Tsuji, Tomoko

    2002-01-01

    Since 1994, there have been 10 cases (1 male, 9 females, 37-72 years old) of primary hyperparathyroidism at our hospital. CT, ultrasonography (US), and MIBI scintigraphy (MIBI) were undertaken for preoperative imaging of the parathyroid tumor. In 9 adenoma cases, accurate localization was obtained in 6 of 9 cases for US, in 8 of 8 cases for CT, and in 9 of 9 cases for MIBI. After the surgery, laboratory data of Ca and i-PTH were in the normal range. Histopathological diagnosis showed 9 adenoma cases and 1 hyperplasia case. Three cases were associated with thyroid diseases. This paper presents two cases with rare clinical symptoms. The chief complaint of the first case was hoarseness. Transient recurrent nerve palsy was observed two times in 2 years. During the surgery, the tumor existed just behind the right recurrent nerve. By histological examination, the tumor was diagnosed as parathyroid adenoma. There has been no recurrent nerve palsy since the surgery. The second case had been treated after diagnosis of deglusion for 3 years in a psychiatry clinic. CT and MIBI showed parathyroid tumor just below the right lobe of the thyroid. After surgery, psychological symptoms were dramatically improved. (author)

  12. High-resolution aeromagnetic survey in the area of Arima-Takatsuki-Rokko active fault system; Arima Takatsuki Rokko katsudanso chiiki ni okeru komitsudo kuchu jiki tansa

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Nakatsuka, T; Okuma, S; Morijiri, R; Makino, M [Geological Survey of Japan, Tsukuba (Japan)

    1996-10-01

    High-resolution aeromagnetic survey was conducted in December, 1995, over the area of Arima-Takatsuki-Rokko active fault system, where the 1995 Hyogo-South (Kobe) earthquake took place. Based on the surveyed data, the magnetic anomaly distribution in the Kei-Hanshin district was illustrated. Features of magnetic anomaly observed in it were discussed. Influence of artificial structures in the coastal zone of Kobe City was tried to be removed. Distinct magnetic anomaly observed in the center of Kyoto City was located at the southern part near Shijo-Karasuma. This was mainly affected by the artificial structure. A high magnetic anomaly with a long wave length was observed in the southern part of Kyoto. There was a high magnetic anomaly in an area surrounded by central cities of Nishinomiya-Toyonaka district. At the location where positive and negative magnetic anomalies were illustrated in NEDO`s map in the coastal zone of Kobe City, the anomaly pattern was clarified. The influence of artificial structure was approximated using a point dipole. The dipole was placed in each block having a magnetic anomaly. The parameter was determined by the inverse analysis, to remove the influence. Consequently, most of magnetic anomalies due to artificial structures could be removed. 6 figs.

  13. Social aspects of Japanese particle physics in the 1950s

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Konuma, Michiji

    1989-01-01

    Military and social restrictions imposed on Japanese scientific research following the second world war made nuclear or particle physics experiments almost impossible. However, the (Japanese) theoretical achievements of the 1940s considerably buoyed this group, namely two-meson theory, super-many-time theory and covariant renormalization theory. Economic conditions were also difficult with high inflation throughout the 1950s. Printing and distribution problems and paper shortages reduced the circulation of scientific journals, but theoretical work progressed well even in isolation. Within Japan, a circular called Soyrushiron Kenkyu (elementary particle theory research) became a valuable medium for exchange of new ideas and information. A Research Institute for Fundamental Physics, the first of several Japanese research institutes, was opened at Kyoto University in 1953, when a major international conference was held there. The second half of the 1950s was a time of expansion and consolidation for particle physics in Japan. (UK)

  14. Purtscher's retinopathy followed by neovascular glaucoma

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Kuroda M

    2013-11-01

    Full Text Available Masasko Kuroda,1 Akihiro Nishida,1 Masashi Kikuchi,2 Yasuo Kurimoto11Department of Ophthalmology, Kobe City Medical Center General Hospital, Kobe, Hyogo, Japan; 2Kikuchi Eye Clinic, Kobe, Hyogo, JapanAbstract: We report the case of a 66-year-old Japanese man who developed neovascular glaucoma secondary to Purtscher's retinopathy following a head injury. The patient presented at our hospital with blurred vision and a visual field abnormality in his left eye 1 month after suffering from a head injury. Upon initial presentation, his best-corrected visual acuity on a decimal chart was 1.5 oculus dexter and 0.6 oculus sinister. The intraocular pressure (IOP was 12 mmHg in both eyes. Fundus examination of the left eye revealed multiple white lesions in the posterior pole. Optical coherence tomography demonstrated retinal edema, particularly in the inner retina. On the basis of these findings, a diagnosis of Purtscher's retinopathy was made. One month after the initial examination, the visual acuity in the left eye deteriorated to 0.01 in decimal chart, and the IOP increased to 37 mmHg. Gonioscopy showed angle neovascularization. The patient received an intravitreal bevacizumab injection and panretinal photocoagulation. Subsequently, the IOP normalized and the angle neovascularization regressed.Keywords: blurred vision, visual field, retinal edema, head injury, head trauma

  15. Reduction of artificial source effect in the high-resolution aeromagnetic survey in the Hanshin region; Hanshin chiiki no komitsudo kuchu jiki tansa ni okeru jinko noise source no eikyo no jokyo

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Nakatsuka, T; Makino, M; Morijiri, R; Okuma, S [Geological Survey of Japan, Tsukuba (Japan)

    1997-05-27

    A high-resolution aeromagnetic survey was carried out in December 1995 on areas from Kobe City to Kyoto City in relation to the Hyogoken-nanbu Earthquake in 1995. It was found in the survey that effects of electric trains driven by direct current and man-made structures cannot be avoided, working as a large noise factor in extraction and analysis of geological information. This paper describes a quantitative analysis on magnetic anomaly suspected to have been caused from artificial sources seen in the magnetic map of the Hanshin area obtained from the above exploration data. The paper also gives considerations on methods to remove the effects therefrom. It then describes a quantitative analysis and the result of attempts on removal of the anomaly, taking up the following factors: (1) distribution of specific and remarkable magnetic anomalies which correspond to railroad positions of the Hanshin Railways running through the Nishinomiya-Toyonaka area, (2) the magnetic anomaly trend in positive and negative pair seen in the seafront area of Kobe City, and (3) typical bipolar isolated type magnetic anomaly in the north-west part of Kobe City. The cause for (1) was loop current flown for the railway operation, that for (2) was man-made structures in the improved seafront area, and that for (3) was a provisionally built metal waste storage yard. 9 figs.

  16. Application of VSP to geological investigation; P ha oyobi S ha VSP wo mochiita shinso chishitsu chosa

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kinugasa, Y [Geological Survey of Japan, Tsukuba (Japan); Feng, S; Sugiyama, T; Ishikawa, K [Chuoh Kaihatsu Corp., Tokyo (Japan)

    1997-05-27

    Discussed in this paper are the P-wave and S-wave zero-offset VSPs carried out utilizing boreholes located in Nada Ward, Kobe City, and Hokudan-cho, Hyogo Prefecture, as part of the deep layer boring survey following Hanshin Earthquake Disaster. This effort aims at the elucidation of P-wave and S-wave velocity structures, high-precision identification of data obtained by the surface reflection method, and collection of basic data for active faults investigation in the future. Among the velocity structures obtained for various layers, the S-wave velocity structures in particular agree with the stratigraphy excellently and may be utilized in seismic analyses to be conducted in the future. Reflection from geological boundaries is received with precision, providing accurate information about correlation between reflection and geological cross sections. The records will be useful in formulating plans for reflection surveys for instance of the boundary between the Osaka group and Kobe group. Generally speaking, reflection coefficients are large when the reflection is from a boundary where difference is great in elastic wave impedance (mainly difference in velocity). In the case of the boundary between the Kobe group and granite in Awaji Island, however, no strong reflection is found despite the great difference in velocity. This is attributed to the complicated, sharp inclination of the basement rock and to its weathering. 4 refs., 8 figs.

  17. Keskmiselt kobe vaatamine / Küllike Rooväli

    Index Scriptorium Estoniae

    Rooväli, Küllike, 1969-

    2004-01-01

    Eesti komöödiafilm "Vanad ja kobedad saavad jalad alla" : režissöör Rando Pettai : operaator Mait Mäekivi : näitlejad Henrik Normann, Madis Milling, Robert Gutman jt. : muusika - ansambel Genialistid : Ruut Pictures 2003

  18. The Relationship between Subclinical Asperger’s Syndrome and Frontotemporal Lobar Degeneration

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Akira Midorikawa

    2012-04-01

    Full Text Available Background/Aims: The existence of the behavioral variant of frontotemporal dementia (bv-FTD, including senile Asperger’s syndrome (AS, has been proposed. However, there are no empirical case reports to support the proposal. In this report, we present 3 patients who showed symptoms of bv-FTD and demonstrated signs of autistic spectrum disorder, especially AS. Methods: We evaluated 3 subjects using the diagnostic criteria for bv-FTD, and their caregivers retrospectively provided data to calculate the Autism-Spectrum Quotient, Japanese version [Wakabayashi et al.: Shinrigaku Kenkyu 2004;75:78–84]. We also compared these data with those obtained from 3 individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. Results: All 3 patients met the criteria for bv-FTD and had a higher Autism-Spectrum Quotient score than did comparable Alzheimer’s disease subjects. Conclusion: It is possible that some senile persons with frontotemporal lobar degeneration-like maladaptive behavior may suffer from subclinical AS.

  19. On the domestic fuel channel for BWR

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Fukada, Hiroshi

    1979-01-01

    Kobe Steel Ltd. started the domestic manufacture of fuel channel boxes for BWRs in 1967, and entered the actual production stage four years after that. Since 1976, the mass production system was adopted with the increase of the demand. The requirements about the surface contamination and the dimensional accuracy over whole length are very strict in the fuel channel boxes, moreover, special consideration must be given so as to prevent the deformation in use. The unique working methods such as electron beam welding, high temperature press forming and so on are employed in Kobe Steel Ltd. to satisfy such strict requirements, therefore the quality of the produced fuel channel boxes is superior to imported ones. At present, the fuel channel boxes domestically made by Kobe Steel Ltd. are used for almost all BWRs in Japan. The functions of fuel channel boxes are to flow boiling coolant uniformly upward, to guide control rods, and to increase the rigidity of fuel assembly. The fuel channel boxes are the square tubes of zircaloy 4 of 134.06 mm inside width, 2.03 mm thickness, and 4118 or 4239 mm length. The progress of the development and the features of the fuel channel boxes and the manufacturing processes are described. Zircaloy plates are formed into channels, and two channels are electron beam-welded after the edge preparation, to make a box. Ultrasonic examination and stress relief treatment are applied, and clips and spacers are welded. (Kako, I.)

  20. Study of dependence of DC output of rectenna array on the method of inter-connection of its array element; Rectenna array chokuryu shutsuryoku no array yoso sogo setsuzokuho izonsei no kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Shinohara, M.; Matsumoto, H. [Kyoto University, Kyoto (Japan). Radio Atmospheric Science Center

    1997-08-20

    In 1994 and 1995, a ground-to-ground microwave power transmission (MPT) experiment was carried out by a group of Kyoto University, Kobe University and Kansai Electric Power Company. Among the MPT technologies, which are one of the most important key issues for the realization of the Solar Power Satellite (SPS), studies of `rectenna` (rectifying antenna) have been pursued to archive higher efficiency of conversion from microwave to DC. We had developed a new rectenna panel which can effectively rectify a microwave power of 2.5 W at 2.45 GHz before the ground-to ground MPT field experiment. We examine the sum of the outputs of two or three rectenna panels in which are connected ether in parallel or in series or in the hybrid connection under the same microwave circumstances. The experiment leads us to conclude: (1) The sum of the DC outputs from two rectenna panels connected in parallel is larger than that from those connected in series. (2) The sum of the DC outputs of two rectenna panels is generally smaller than the sum of the DC output of the individual panels unless their output is equal to each other. (3) The total output DC power of a rectenna array increases when we connect the array element with consideration of the `element balance`. Based on the experiment, we propose an optimum method for connection of individual rectenna elements to form an rectenna array. 12 refs., 9 figs., 4 tabs.

  1. Lifting of a sector block for YE-2 at Kawasaki.

    CERN Multimedia

    R. Loveless/U. of Wisconsin

    2000-01-01

    YE-2 is build from machined sector blocks. Trial assembly is carried out horizontally. This picture represents the lifting of a machined sector block destined to the trial assembly of a half disk YE-2 at Kawasaki (KHI) Kobe, Japan.

  2. Effectiveness and safety of oral olanzapine treatment transitioned from rapid-acting intramuscular olanzapine for agitation associated with schizophrenia

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Katagiri H

    2018-04-01

    Full Text Available Hideaki Katagiri,1 Masanori Taketsuna,2 Shinpei Kondo,3 Kenta Kajimoto,4 Etsuko Aoi,5 Yuka Tanji1 1Bio-Medicines, Medicines Development Unit Japan, Eli Lilly Japan K.K., Kobe, Japan; 2Statistical Sciences, Medicines Development Unit Japan, Eli Lilly Japan K.K., Kobe, Japan; 3Post Marketing Study Management, Medicines Development Unit Japan, Eli Lilly Japan K.K., Kobe, Japan; 4Scientific Communications, Medicines Development Unit Japan, Eli Lilly Japan K.K., Kobe, Japan; 5Global Patient Safety Japan, Quality and Patient Safety, Eli Lilly Japan K.K., Kobe, Japan Objective: To assess the effectiveness and safety of oral olanzapine treatment transitioned from rapid-acting intramuscular olanzapine (RAIM in patients with acute agitation associated with schizophrenia in a real-world clinical setting. Methods: The postmarketing surveillance study with a 3-day observational period after the last RAIM administration was conducted (original study. Following this, an extended study was added for patients who received oral olanzapine after RAIM administration during the original study period, in order to additionally observe them for 7 days after initial RAIM administration. Effectiveness and safety from initial RAIM administration were evaluated using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale-Excited Component score and treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs, respectively. Results: The effectiveness and safety analysis set included a total of 521 and 522 patients, respectively. A majority of patients received 10 mg of RAIM (475/522 patients, 91.0%. The mean ± SD total Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale-Excited Component score was 23.6±6.2 (n=318 at baseline (before initial RAIM administration, 17.4±6.8 (n=280 at 2 hours after initial administration, 16.2±6.8 (n=246 2 days after final administration, 14.9±6.2 (n=248 3 days after final administration, 13.8±5.9 (n=242 4 days after final administration, 13.2±5.8 (n=221 7 days after initial

  3. Amélie Nothomb: la vida en el cor de l’obra

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Monsó, Imma

    2009-06-01

    Full Text Available Breve repaso de la obra de Amélie nothomb (autora belga nacida en Kobe, Japón en 1967, que pone de relieve la importancia de la biografía personal en las novelas de esta popular autora.

  4. Facts learnt from the Hanshin-Awaji disaster and consideration on design basis earthquake

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Shibata, Heki

    1997-01-01

    This paper will deal with how to establish the concept of the design basis earthquake for critical industrial facilities such as nuclear power plants in consideration of disasters induced by the 1995 Hyogoken-Nanbu Earthquake (Southern Hyogo-prefecture Earthquake-1995), so-called Kobe earthquake. The author once discussed various DBEs at 7 WCEE. At that time, the author assumed that the strongest effective PGA would be 0.7 G, and compared to the values of accelerations to a structure obtained by various codes in Japan and other countries. The maximum PGA observed by an instrument at the Southern Hyogo-pref. Earthquake-1995 exceeded the previous assumption of the author, even though the evaluation results of the previous paper had been pessimistic. According to the experience of Kobe event, the author will point out the necessity of the third earthquake S s adding to S 1 and S 2 , previous DBEs. (author)

  5. Genecialist manifesto: overcoming the “class struggle” in medicine

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Iwata K

    2013-04-01

    Full Text Available Kentaro Iwata Division of Infectious Diseases, Kobe University Hospital, Kobe, Hyogo, Japan Abstract: Generalists and specialists are often considered two completely distinct species, which culminates in the establishment of a concept of dichotomy. However, these dichotomy can at times fuel tension and even erupt into open conflict. In order to resolve this issue, the author herein proposes the concept of a “genecialist.” The genecialist refers to a hybrid comprising elements inherent to both generalists and specialists. This potentially overcomes the multitude of issues associated with both generalists and specialists in the practical aspects of medicine. The coalescence of these two contrarieties may hold the key to improving the future of health care. Mediating and integrating both categories into one consolidated entity carries the potential to stem the tide of class warfare between generalists and specialists. Keywords: genecialist, aufheben, generalist, specialist, asymmetry

  6. PREFACE: Fourth International Symposium on Atomic Technology

    Science.gov (United States)

    Okada, Shigefumi

    2010-04-01

    The International Symposium on Atomic Technology (ISAT) is held every year. The 4th Symposium (ISAT-4) was held on November 18-19, 2009 at the Seaside Hotel MAIKO VILLA KOBE, Kobe City, Japan presided by the "Atomic Technology Project". The ISAT-4 symposium was intended to offer a forum for the discussion on the latest progress in the atomic technologies. The symposium was attended by 107 delegates. There were 10 invited and 6 oral presentations. The number of poster presentations was 69. From all the contributions, 22 papers selected through review process are contained in this volume. The "Atomic Technology Project" was started in 2006 as a joint project of three institutions; (1) the Center for Atomic and Molecular Technologies, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University (CAMT), (2) the Tsukuba Research Center for Interdisciplinary Materials Science, Graduate School of Pure and Applied Sciences, University of Tsukuba (TIMS) and (3) the Polyscale Technology Research Center, Research Institute for Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Science (PTRC), each of which were independently pursuing nano-technologies and was developing atomic scale operation and diagnostics, functional materials, micro processing and device. The project is funded by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology of Japan. The goal of the project is to contribute to the development of atomic-scale science and technologies such as functional molecules, biomaterials, and quantum functions of atomic-scale structures. Shigefumi Okada Conference Chair Center for Atomic and Molecular Technologies, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita-city, Osaka 565-0871, Japan. Conference photograph Kobe photograph

  7. Direct reduction process using fines and with reduced CO2 emission

    CSIR Research Space (South Africa)

    Morrison, A

    2004-08-01

    Full Text Available , of which there is an abundant supply in South Africa. The rotary hearth process is one and two such units are currently in operation in Japan: one at Nippon Steel and another at Kobe Steel.3 Direct reduction for ferroalloy production offers...

  8. 19 CFR Appendix to Part 102 - Textile and Apparel Manufacturer Identification

    Science.gov (United States)

    2010-04-01

    ... Morich Indo Fashion.” In Russia, other prefixes are used, such as “JSC,” “OAO,” “OOO,” and “ZAO.” These..., Sidney, Australia; AUCARJON88SID N. MINAMI & CO., LTD., 2-6, 8-Chome Isogami-Dori, Fukiai-Ku, Kobe, Japan...

  9. Design basis earthquakes for critical industrial facilities and their characteristics, and the Southern Hyogo prefecture earthquake, 17 January 1995

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Shibata, Heki

    1998-12-01

    This paper deals with how to establish the concept of the design basis earthquake (DBE) for critical industrial facilities such as nuclear power plants in consideration of disasters such as the Southern Hyogo prefecture earthquake, the so-called Kobe earthquake in 1995. The author once discussed various DBEs at the 7th World Conference on Earthquake Engineering. At that time, the author assumed that the strongest effective PGA would be 0.7 G, and compared the values of accelerations of a structure obtained by various codes in Japan and other countries. The maximum PGA observed by an instrument at the Southern Hyogo prefecture earthquake in 1995 exceeded the previous assumption of the author, even though the results of the previous paper had been pessimistic. According to the experience of the Kobe event, the author will point out the necessity of the third earthquake S{sub s} adding to S{sub 1} and S{sub 2} of previous DBEs.

  10. European supply chain for valve springs

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Barthold, G. [Scherdel GmbH, Marktredwitz (Germany); Thureborn, D.; Hallberg, M. [Haldex Garphyttan AB (Sweden); Janssen, P. [Mittal Steel Ruhrort GmbH / Mittal Steel Hochfeld GmbH (Germany)

    2005-07-01

    Forced by the Kobe earthquake in 1995 and the lack of valve spring steel on the world market due to damages of the Kobe steel plant, the development of a European supply chain has been sped up. End of 1994 a super clean valve spring steel with a reasonable quality from a European source was available. A strong relationship between the steel producer (Mittal), the wire manufacturer (Haldex Garphyttan) and the spring maker (Scherdel) was established. A working group of the three companies holds meetings on a regular basis to discuss quality and development issues. Over the last years the supply chain has achieved significant improvements in terms of cleanliness and decarburisation of the wire rod. The continuous common advancement of the valve spring quality has enabled the valve spring failures in the field to be reduced to < 0.1 ppm. The development and market launch of new grades has been prepared. (orig.)

  11. The UNESCO-IOC framework – establishing an international early warning infrastructure in the Indian Ocean region

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    J. Lauterjung

    2010-12-01

    Full Text Available The Sumatra-Andaman earthquake with a magnitude of 9.3, and the subsequent destructive tsunami which caused more than 225 000 fatalities in the region of the Indian Ocean, happened on 26 December 2004. Less than one month later, the United Nations (UN World Conference on Disaster Reduction took place in Kobe, Japan to commemorate the 1995 Kobe earthquake. The importance of preparedness and awareness on regional, national and community levels with respect to natural disasters was discussed during this meeting, and resulted in the approval of the Hyogo Declaration on Disaster Reduction. Based on this declaration the UN mandated the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC of UNESCO (United Nations Education, Science and Cultural Organization, taking note of its over 40 years of successful coordination of the Pacific Tsunami Warning System (PTWC, to take on the international coordination of national early-warning efforts for the Indian Ocean and to guide the process of setting up a Regional Tsunami Early Warning System for the Indian Ocean.

  12. Japanese steel mills update and expectations to Canadian coal industry

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Yamaguchi, I.

    2008-01-01

    Kobe Steel's (Kobelco) corporate strategy includes expanding from only-one product such as high tensile strength steel sheet, and enlarging overseas production capacity through joint ventures and technical alliances. A new steel making process from low quality iron ore and steaming coal called ITmk3 has been developed by Kobe Steel that does not require any coke, reduces carbon dioxide emissions by 20 per cent, and reduces the cost of transporting slag. This strategy and technology was presented along with the changes surrounding the Japanese steel industry and raw materials market. These changes include the rise of emerging oil-producing countries; world steel production and exports; the rise in prices of resources; and the slowdown of the United States economy. The current situation of Japanese crude steel production, pig-iron production, and coke expansion plans were also presented. The presentation also outlined expectation's of the Canadian coal industry with reference to Canadian coal imports to Japan. tabs., figs

  13. Distributions of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and alkylated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in Osaka Bay, Japan.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Miki, Shizuho; Uno, Seiichi; Ito, Kazuki; Koyama, Jiro; Tanaka, Hiroyuki

    2014-08-30

    Contaminations in sediments by polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and alkylated PAHs were investigated at 44 sites in Osaka Bay, Japan. Concentrations of total PAHs and alkylated PAHs were in the range 6.40-7800 ng/g dry weights and 13.7-1700 ng/g dry weights, respectively. The PAH concentrations tended to be higher along the shoreline in the vicinities of big ports, industrialized areas, and densely populated regions such as the cities of Osaka and Kobe. The major sources appeared to be pyrogenic or both pyrogenic and petrogenic at most of the sites. PAH concentrations were remarkably high at a site near Kobe, where the concentrations of dibenzo(a,h)anthracene and benzo(g,h,i)perylene exceeded the effects-range-medium concentration and eight PAHs were above the corresponding effects-range-low concentrations. Those PAHs may have been derived from the great fire associated with the large earthquake in 1995. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  14. Facts learnt from the Hanshin-Awaji disaster and consideration on design basis earthquake

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Shibata, Heki [Yokohama National Univ. (Japan). Faculty of Engineering

    1997-03-01

    This paper will deal with how to establish the concept of the design basis earthquake for critical industrial facilities such as nuclear power plants in consideration of disasters induced by the 1995 Hyogoken-Nanbu Earthquake (Southern Hyogo-prefecture Earthquake-1995), so-called Kobe earthquake. The author once discussed various DBEs at 7 WCEE. At that time, the author assumed that the strongest effective PGA would be 0.7 G, and compared to the values of accelerations to a structure obtained by various codes in Japan and other countries. The maximum PGA observed by an instrument at the Southern Hyogo-pref. Earthquake-1995 exceeded the previous assumption of the author, even though the evaluation results of the previous paper had been pessimistic. According to the experience of Kobe event, the author will point out the necessity of the third earthquake S{sub s} adding to S{sub 1} and S{sub 2}, previous DBEs. (author)

  15. Business diversification in blast furnace steel makers. Koro kakusha no takakuka no jokyo

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    1991-11-01

    Scenarios are presented for the current business diversification and future business developments by the three Japanese blast furnace steel makers (Kawasaki Steel, Kobe Steel and Shin Nippon Steel). The conceptions for their advancement into the 2lst century are more or less similar. The business diversification commenced for Kawasaki Steel in 1985, Kobe Steel in 1989 and Shin Nippon Steel in 1987, all taking a pattern of tree-like development into related businesses starting from the basic industry. Their new businesses may be summarized generically as: electronics industry (LSI, silicon, electronic devices, information and communication); new material related business (ferrite, ceramics, metal powder, metal foils); chemical business (plastics, etc.); engineerings (architecture, urban andregional developments, etc.); and service business (system network development, lease business, real estate, leisure business, etc.). Endeavors are made also on full-scale entity into tertiary industries, and amenity field. M A and joint venture businesses are attempted in wide scale and positive manners also in overseas countries. 6 fige., 4 tads.

  16. Disputable non-double-couple mechanisms of several strong earthquakes: second-degree moment approach

    Czech Academy of Sciences Publication Activity Database

    Adamová, Petra; Šílený, Jan

    2013-01-01

    Roč. 103, č. 5 (2013), s. 2836-2849 ISSN 0037-1106 R&D Projects: GA ČR GAP210/10/0296 Institutional support: RVO:67985530 Keywords : Izmit Turkey earthquake * 1995 Kobe earthquake * rupture processes Subject RIV: DC - Siesmology, Volcanology, Earth Structure Impact factor: 1.964, year: 2013

  17. Utilization of healthcare services in postpartum women in the Philippines who delivered at home and the effects on their health: a cross-sectional analytical study

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Yamashita T

    2017-09-01

    Full Text Available Tadashi Yamashita,1 Maria Teresa Reyes Tuliao,2 Magdalena Concel Meana,2 Sherri Ann Suplido,3 Cecilia L Llave,4 Yuko Tanaka,5 Hiroya Matsuo6 1Kobe City College of Nursing, Kobe, Japan; 2Health Department of Muntinlupa, Muntinlupa, Philippines; 3Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Philippine General Hospital, Manila, Philippines; 4College of Medicine (CM, University of the Philippine (UP, Manila, Philippines; 5Department of School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan; 6Department of International Health, Kobe University Graduate School of Health Sciences, Kobe, Japan Background: A low ratio of utilization of healthcare services in postpartum women may contribute to maternal deaths during the postpartum period. The maternal mortality ratio is high in the Philippines. The aim of this study was to examine the current utilization of healthcare services and the effects on the health of women in the Philippines who delivered at home. Methods: This was a cross-sectional analytical study, based on a self-administrated questionnaire, conducted from March 2015 to February 2016 in Muntinlupa, Philippines. Sixty-three postpartum women who delivered at home or at a facility were enrolled for this study. A questionnaire containing questions regarding characteristics, utilization of healthcare services, and abnormal symptoms during postpartum period was administered. To analyze the questionnaire data, the sample was divided into delivery at home and delivery at a facility. Chi-square test, Fisher’s exact test, and Mann–Whitney U test were used. Results: There were significant differences in the type of birth attendant, area of residence, monthly income, and maternal and child health book usage between women who delivered at home and those who delivered at a facility (P<0.01. There was significant difference in the utilization of antenatal checkup (P<0.01 during pregnancy, whilst there was no

  18. Composition of gypsum from the Koběřice quarry (Czech Republic)

    Czech Academy of Sciences Publication Activity Database

    Konečný, Pavel; Plevová, Eva; Vaculíková, Lenka; Kožušníková, Alena; Peterková, J.; Hundáková, M.

    2011-01-01

    Roč. 8, č. 2 (2011), s. 145-156 ISSN 1214-9705 Institutional research plan: CEZ:AV0Z30860518 Keywords : gypsum * Kobeřice quarry * spectroscopy Subject RIV: DB - Geology ; Mineralogy Impact factor: 0.530, year: 2011 http://www.irsm.cas.cz/abstracts/AGG/02_11/5_Konecny.pdf

  19. Isolation of Indonesian Cananga Oil by Instantaneous Controled Pressure Drop: Influence of Processing Parameters on Compound Yields.

    Czech Academy of Sciences Publication Activity Database

    Kristiawan, M.; Sobolík, Václav; Al Haddad, M.; Allaf, K.

    2007-01-01

    Roč. 40, 11 (2007) , s. 1021-1029 ISSN 0021-9592. [IWPI2006. Kobe, 15.10.2006-18.10.2006] Institutional research plan: CEZ:AV0Z40720504 Keywords : cananga oil * instantaneous controlled pressure Drop * steam distillation Subject RIV: CI - Industrial Chemistry, Chemical Engineering Impact factor: 0.594, year: 2007

  20. Charge carrier transport on molecular wire controlled by dipolar species: towards light-driven molecular switch

    Czech Academy of Sciences Publication Activity Database

    Nešpůrek, Stanislav; Toman, Petr; Sworakowski, J.

    438-439, - (2003), s. 268-278 ISSN 0040-6090. [International Conference on Nano- Molecular Electronics /5./. Kobe, 10.12.2002-12.12.2002] R&D Projects: GA AV ČR KSK4050111 Keywords : molecular electronics * polymers * quantum effects Subject RIV: BM - Solid Matter Physics ; Magnetism Impact factor: 1.598, year: 2003

  1. The January 17, 1994 Northridge Earthquake: Effects on selected industrial facilities and lifelines

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Eli, M.W.; Sommer, S.C. [Lawrence Livermore National Lab., CA (United States); Roche, T.R.; Merz, K.L.

    1995-02-01

    Revision 0 of this report is being published in February 1995 to closely mark the one-year anniversary of the Northridge Earthquake. A September 1994 Draft version of the report was reviewed by DOE and NRC, and many of the review comments are incorporated into Revision 0. While this revision of the report is not entirely complete, it is being made available for comment, review, and evaluation. Since the report was written by several authors, sections of the report have slightly different styles. Several sections of Revision 0 are not complete, but are planned to be completed in Revision 1. The primary unfinished section is Section 3.3 on Electric Power Transmission. Other sections of Revision 0, such as Section 4.5.2 on the Energy Technology Engineering Center and 3.2 on Electric Power Generation, will be enhanced with further detailed information as it becomes available. In addition, further data, including processed response spectra for investigated facilities and cataloging of relay performance, will be added to Revision 1 depending upon investigation support. While Revision 0 of this report is being published by LLNL, Revision 1 is planned to be published by EPRI. The anticipated release date for Revision 1 is December 1995. Unfortunately, the one-year anniversary of the Northridge Earthquake was also marked by the devastating Hyogo-Ken Nanbu (or Hanshin-Awaji) Earthquake in Kobe, Japan. As compared to the Northridge Earthquake, there were many more deaths, collapsed structures, destroyed lifelines, and fires following the Kobe Earthquake. Lessons from the Kobe Earthquake will both reemphasize topics discussed in this report and provide further issues to be addressed when designing and retrofitting structures, systems, and components for seismic strong motion.

  2. FY 2000 report on the results of the joint research - Field test project on the photovoltaic power generation for public facility use; 2000 nendo kyodokenkyu gyomu seika hokokusho. Kokyo shisetsu you taiyoko hatsuden field test jigyo

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    2001-05-01

    The paper arranged the FY 2000 results of the field test on the photovoltaic power generation for public facility use, etc. This report described in detail the results obtained at 237 places including the following: Social Welfare Corp. Seimei-kai, Kobe City (Hyogo Prefecture), Iitaka Town of Iinan County (Mie Prefecture), Kyushu Electric Safety Association, Educational Corp. Kongo Gakuen, Social Welfare Corp. Izumi-kai, Educational Corp. Shiobara Ikuei-kai, Educational Corp. Aiko Gakuen, Social Welfare Corp. Tachibana-kai, Cooperative Association Co-op Kobe, Social Welfare Corp. Hoshizuki-no-sato, Tochigi-Fuji Industrial Co., Hirabayashi Section of Gamo Town of Gamo County (Shiga Prefecture), Yanagawa City (Fukuoka Prefecture), Imadate City of Imadate County (Fukui Prefecture), Osaka Prefecture, Yamanashi Prefecture, Utazu Town of Ayauta County (Kagawa Prefecture), Educational Corp. Fukuyama Gakuen, New Energy Business Cooperative Association, Meitec Corp., Shikoku Medicom Co., Shizen Kobo Co., Educational Corp. Horikoshi Gakuen, Matama Town of Nishi-Kunisaki County (Oita Prefecture), Nio Town of Mitoyo County (Kagawa Prefecture), Educational Corp. Koshien Gakuin, Sansei Giken Co., Mitsui Greenland Co., AWI Mach Co., Nagoya City and Educational Corp. Kibogaoka Gakuen. (NEDO)

  3. Pathological and radiological correlation in an autopsy case of combined pulmonary fibrosis and emphysema

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Karata H

    2015-07-01

    Full Text Available Hiroki Karata,1 Tomonori Tanaka,1 Ryoko Egashira,2 Kazuhiro Tabata,1 Kyoko Otani,3 Ryuji Hayashi,4 Takashi Hori,5 Junya Fukuoka1 1Department of Pathology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan; 2Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Saga University, Saga, Japan; 3Department of Diagnostic Pathology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan; 4Department of Internal Medicine, University of Toyama, Faculty of Medicine, Toyama, Japan; 5Laboratory of Pathology, Toyama University Hospital, Toyama, Japan Abstract: We report an educational autopsy case of combined pulmonary fibrosis and emphysema. Radiological patterns of the upper lung were considered as mostly emphysema, but pathological observation revealed significant interstitial fibrosis of usual interstitial pneumonia as a major pathology. The patient eventually developed acute exacerbation of background interstitial pneumonia. Careful radiological and pathological correlation of the current case indicates that regions with distal acinar emphysema on computed tomography image may possess histologically marked dense fibrosis of lethal interstitial pneumonia. Keywords: interstitial pneumonia, CPFE, AEF, smoking, CT

  4. Development and applications of beta and near beta titanium alloys

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Takemura, A.; Ohyama, H.; Nishimura, T.; Abumiya, T.

    1993-01-01

    In this report the authors introduced application of beta and near beta titanium alloys also development and processing of these alloys at Kobe Steel LTD. Ti-15Mo-5Zr-3Al is an alloy developed by Kobe Steel which has been applied for variety of sporting goods, also used as an erosion shield of steam turbine blades. Ti-15Mo-5Zr-3Al high strength wire for valve springs is under development. New beta alloys(Ti-V-Nb-Sn-Al) are under development which have lower flow stress at room temperature than Ti 15V-3Cr-3Sn-3Al, expected to improve productivity of cold forging. NNS forging and thermo mechanical treatment of Ti-10V-2Fe-3Al were studied. Ti-10V-2Fe3Al steam turbine blades and structural parts for aircraft were developed. Fine grain cold strips of Ti 15V-3Cr-3Sn-3Al are produced by annealing and pickling process. These cold strips are used for parts of a fishing rod

  5. Visualization of strong around motion calculated from the numerical simulation of Hyogo-ken Nanbu earthquake; Suchi simulation de miru Hyogoken nanbu jishin no kyoshindo

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Furumura, T [Hokkaido Univ. of Education, Sapporo (Japan); Koketsu, K [The University of Tokyo, Tokyo (Japan). Earthquake Research Institute

    1996-10-01

    Hyogo-ken Nanbu earthquake with a focus in the Akashi straits has given huge earthquake damages in and around Awaji Island and Kobe City in 1995. It is clear that the basement structure, which is steeply deepened at Kobe City from Rokko Mountains towards the coast, and the focus under this related closely to the local generation of strong ground motion. Generation process of the strong ground motion was discussed using 2D and 3D numerical simulation methods. The 3D pseudospectral method was used for the calculation. Space of 51.2km{times}25.6km{times}25.6km was selected for the calculation. This space was discretized with the lattice interval of 200m. Consequently, it was found that the basement structure with a steeply deepened basement, soft and weak geological structure thickly deposited on the basement, and earthquake faults running under the boundary of base rock and sediments related greatly to the generation of strong ground motion. Numerical simulation can be expected to predict the strong ground motion by shallow earthquakes. 9 refs., 7 figs.

  6. A Chrysanthemum in the Garden: A Christian Kindergarten in the Empire of Japan

    Science.gov (United States)

    Nishida, Yukiyo

    2015-01-01

    This is a study of the contribution of Christian missionaries to kindergarten education in the Empire of Japan. The study concerns an American Missionary woman, Annie L. Howe (1852-1943) and her kindergarten in Kobe, Japan. Annie L. Howe had a great impact on the history of early childhood education and is still remembered as the "Mother of…

  7. Põhjakeskuse tehingut ei saa tagasi pöörata / Anne Oja

    Index Scriptorium Estoniae

    Oja, Anne, 1970-

    2008-01-01

    Kobe Investmentsi partnerite Veljo Kuuse ja Kaire Kopli sõnul ei saa endine autoärimees Toomas Rüütmann Põhjakeskuse tehingut tagasi pöörata ning T. Rüütmann on keskuse projektist kätte saanud kordades enam raha, kui on sinna investeerinud. Vt. samas: Rüütmann väidab, et ta lasi varad arestida

  8. Japanese version transport/storage packaging 'TN24'

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Kakunai, H.; Iida, T.; Tsuda, K.; Akamatsu, H.

    1993-01-01

    Since 1983, Kobe Steel has been engaged jointly with the French company Transnucleaire in the development of 'TN24', a dry-type transport and storage packaging for irradiated fuel elements. This report describes the packaging, which has been adapted for use in domestic power stations using BWRs on the basis of the results of this development. (J.P.N.)

  9. A cross-sectional study exploring useful indicators for low bone mineral density in male alcoholic patients

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Horai T

    2018-02-01

    Full Text Available Tadasu Horai,1 Akitoyo Hishimoto,1 Ikuo Otsuka,1 Tatsuhiro So,2 Kentaro Mouri,1 Naofumi Shimmyo,1 Shuken Boku,1 Noriaki Okishio,3 Ichiro Sora1 1Department of Psychiatry, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan; 2So Mental Clinic, Kobe, Japan; 3Hyogo Mental Health Center, Kobe, Japan Background: Alcohol dependence induces low bone mineral density (BMD, predicting osteoporosis, while low and moderate alcohol consumption may even increase BMD. In recent years, undercarboxylated osteocalcin (ucOC and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase-5b (TRACP-5b, bone turnover markers, have gained special interest as useful indicators of low BMD. However, it remains unclear whether other alcohol-related variables (eg, duration of abstinence and continuous drinking are linked to aberrant BMD. In addition, no previous study has investigated whether ucOC or TRACP-5b is clinically useful to predict low BMD not only in the general population, but also in alcohol-dependent subjects.Patients and methods: We recruited 275 male alcohol-dependent subjects and collected information about their drinking habits, comorbid diseases, smoking history and walking exercise behavior. BMD in each subject was determined by ultrasonography. Serum liver enzymes (AST, ALT, ALP, ChE, γ-GTP and LDH, ucOC and TRACP-5b were measured in all subjects. T-scores were calculated according to BMD for all subjects.Results: The mean T-scores of our subjects were negatively shifted compared to the general population (-0.75±1.36 SD. We divided our subjects into a normal BMD group (n=137 and a low BMD group (n=138 according to their T-scores (T-score ≥-1 SD, normal BMD; T-score <-1 SD, low BMD. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that body mass index (BMI was negatively associated with low BMD (95% CI: 0.75–0.90. By contrast, long abstinence period (95% CI: 1.40–4.21, smoking (95% CI: 1.30–5.56, hypertension (95% CI: 1.04–3.76, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH (95

  10. Report on achievements in fiscal 1998. Surveys on development of an at-home welfare device system to rationalize energy use. (Chofu City); 1998 nendo energy shiyo gorika zaitaku fukushi kiki system kaihatsu chosa (Chofu) saiitaku kenkyu seika hokokusho

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1999-03-01

    This paper describes investigative studies on a new at-home welfare devices. Section 2 of the document, 'Studies on electric power conservation considering living patterns of elderly and physically handicapped persons' describes verification experiments in ferro-concrete buildings and ordinary homes by using a prototype system structured in last fiscal year. Qualitative analysis was performed based on the result thereof. In the 'Surveys on working environments for elderly people', directionality was presented in improving labor environments for the elderly people. Section 3, 'Studies on emergency evacuation devices for physically handicapped and elderly people' discovered that many of the presently available evacuation devices are intended of use mainly by handicap-free people, and there are many aspects that are difficult to say that elderly and physically handicapped people are included in the field of vision. In the 'Studies on an at-home training supporting system to maintain movement functions of the legs of elderly people', design and fabrication were performed on a prototype of an external control device operated by the legs. The 'Surveys on energy demand for at-home welfare devices for elderly people', showed how much the growth of the number of utilized devices will link to the cause to push up the energy demand in the household department in Japan. (NEDO)

  11. Report on achievements in fiscal 1998. Surveys on development of an at-home welfare device system to rationalize energy use. (Sapporo City); 1998 nendo energy shiyo gorika zaitaku fukushi kiki system kaihatsu chosa (Sapporo) saiitaku kenkyu seika hokokusho

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1999-03-01

    Daily, weekly and annual changes in energy use at care-taking sites were studied with the following six assignments enumerated: (1) studies on energy use amount in residential houses in the Hokkaido district, (2) discussions on improving energy conservation and efficiency in electric room heating systems and road heating, (3) evaluation on indoor air environment and discussions on effectiveness of air cleaning devices and ventilation systems, (4) surveys and studies on rational snow disposal methods for houses for physically handicapped and elderly persons and on housing patterns, and (6) surveys on effects of room warming environment in energy saving type houses on body feeling of elderly persons. Development of at-home welfare device systems utilizing energy more effectively was studied with the following five assignments enumerated: (1) surveys on energy consumption evaluation of at-home welfare devices, (2) surveys on developing a method to simulate energy consumption by analyzing utilization of the at-home welfare devices, (3) surveys on energy consumption and pleasantness associated with movement from a living section using the welfare devices to outdoor, (4) surveys on a garage utilizing a home elevator and around the garage, and (5) surveys on temperature setting and energy consumption when humidity in the garage is adjusted. (NEDO)

  12. Report on achievements in fiscal 1998. Surveys on development of an at-home welfare device system to rationalize energy use. (Ube City); 1998 nendo energy shiyo gorika zaitaku fukushi kiki system kaihatsu chosa (Ube) saiitaku kenkyu seika hokokusho

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1999-03-01

    The present study utilizes a Welfare Techno-House to analyze structural characteristics of residential houses arranged with considerations for elderly people, and operation characteristics of at-home welfare devices. It is also intended to identify the status of energy consumption, and research and develop energy saving devices. The research and development items for the current fiscal year are as follows: (1) survey on power consumption in at-home welfare devices, and (2) development of at-home welfare device systems utilizing energy more effectively - sub-item a.: studies on leveling of energy use, b.: studies on identification of load applied to riders of power driven wheelchairs when they are operated, c.: studies on next generation housing for elderly and physically handicapped people, d.: surveys on discharged VOC concentration in houses built in warm districts. In item (1), power consumption of air conditioners for room heating in winter was measured to have derived time series data of daily change in the energy consumption. In the sub-item a, discussions were given on system efficiency evaluation on ice heat storing devices and floor cooling devices, and the indoor thermal environment characteristics. In the sub-item b, load applied to riders of power driven wheelchairs when they are operated was experimented for verification. In the sub-item c, surveys were performed on hot heat environment in a greenhouse attached to a residential houses arranged with considerations for elderly people. In the sub-item d, measurements were carried out on formaldehyde concentration and VOC in houses newly built in warm and cold districts to discuss preventive measures for indoor air pollution. (NEDO)

  13. Report on achievements in fiscal 1998. Surveys on development of an at-home welfare device system to rationalize energy use. (Chofu City); 1998 nendo energy shiyo gorika zaitaku fukushi kiki system kaihatsu chosa (Chofu) saiitaku kenkyu seika hokokusho

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1999-03-01

    This paper describes investigative studies on a new at-home welfare devices. Section 2 of the document, 'Studies on electric power conservation considering living patterns of elderly and physically handicapped persons' describes verification experiments in ferro-concrete buildings and ordinary homes by using a prototype system structured in last fiscal year. Qualitative analysis was performed based on the result thereof. In the 'Surveys on working environments for elderly people', directionality was presented in improving labor environments for the elderly people. Section 3, 'Studies on emergency evacuation devices for physically handicapped and elderly people' discovered that many of the presently available evacuation devices are intended of use mainly by handicap-free people, and there are many aspects that are difficult to say that elderly and physically handicapped people are included in the field of vision. In the 'Studies on an at-home training supporting system to maintain movement functions of the legs of elderly people', design and fabrication were performed on a prototype of an external control device operated by the legs. The 'Surveys on energy demand for at-home welfare devices for elderly people', showed how much the growth of the number of utilized devices will link to the cause to push up the energy demand in the household department in Japan. (NEDO)

  14. Report on achievements in fiscal 1998. Surveys on development of an at-home welfare device system to rationalize energy use. (Imaichi City); 1998 nendo energy shiyo gorika zaitaku fukushi kiki system kaihatsu chosa (Imaichi) saiitaku kenkyu seika hokokusho

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1999-03-01

    Evaluations were given on energy demand in residential houses arranged with considerations for elderly people based on district features for at-home welfare devices, and on change in energy use at care-taking sites. Surveys and studies were performed on structural characteristics of residential houses arranged with considerations for elderly people, and on structuring of at-home welfare device systems. The study items are as follows: (1) identification of the using patterns of the at-home welfare devices, and measurement and evaluation on electric power consumption, (2) measurement and evaluation on household energy consumption, (3) estimation on energy demand in residential houses for elderly people, (4) surveys on hot heat sensitivity, and (5) estimation on allowance for steps in rooms. In Item 1, electric power consumption is measured during standard operation of at-home welfare devices by using power measuring devices in the Welfare Techno-House (WTH) Imaichi. In item 2, a questionnaire survey is performed on the ways of living in elderly people's households and general households. In Item 3, energy demand is estimated in houses for elderly people incorporated with welfare devices, based on the results of Items 1 and 2. In Item 4, measurement and evaluation are made by using experiments on physiological changes in bodies of elderly people in toilet space in the WTH, and on a room heating system giving comfortable feeling. In item 5, discussions are given on air tightness of doors in barrier free sections, and on allowable limit of steps inside rooms. (NEDO)

  15. Report on achievements in fiscal 1998. Surveys on development of an at-home welfare device system to rationalize energy use (Shizuoka City); 1998 nendo energy shiyo gorika zaitaku fukushi kiki system kaihatsu chosa (Shizuoka) saiitaku kenkyu seika hokokusho

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1999-03-01

    In order to achieve rationalization in energy use, surveys and studies were performed on structuring new at-home welfare device systems of effective energy utilization type, based on structural characteristics of residential houses arranged with considerations for elderly people, and operation characteristics of at-home welfare device systems. For the 'evaluation of daily, weekly and annual changes in energy use at care-taking sites', measurements were performed on cumulative power during operation standby and momentary power under no load and load in eight care-taking devices such as a care-taking Gatch bed, a motor-driven lift-up cooking table and a home elevator installed in the WTH Shizuoka, by using a house energy measuring device. The measurements verified that large power is consumed during standby operation. In developing the 'at-home welfare device systems that utilize energy more effectively', a solar beam measuring device was used to measure over an extended period of time the power generation amount of a solar beam power generation system installed in the WTH Shizuoka. Evaluation was given on the system as an emergency power supply for an emergency event, and consideration was given on the effectiveness of the system in the Shizuoka district where daily sunlight irradiation lasts long. Development was made on an inexpensive walking training device, on which effectiveness as a waling training device was evaluated by using a position sensor and a force plate. (NEDO)

  16. お蔵出しの大屋根裏 : 「あふれたもの」を「ありふれた街」に設える建築

    OpenAIRE

    手塚, 健太

    2015-01-01

    I want to convert the shuttered shopping street. The purpose of this project is to attract people and a lot of things in shopping street again. So in this proposal, it is possible to conversion the shuttered shopping street at Kobe as storages of the museum and we aim to make a prototype for drawing a new local shopping street image.

  17. Design and fabrication of transport/storage packaging for spent fuels

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Nagahama, Hayao; Kakunai, Haruo

    1989-01-01

    Dry storage in containers is one of several methods for storing spent fuel dischaged from nuclear power plants. Kobe Steel and Transnucleaire (France) have jointly developed large-capacity, safe transport/storage packaging for use in this storage method. This paper outlines the packaging, the manufacturing of a prototype model, and an active storage demonstration test involving the prototype model. (author)

  18. Nuclear fuel treatment facility for 'Mutsu'

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Kanazawa, Toshio; Fujimura, Kazuo; Horiguchi, Eiji; Kobayashi, Tetsuji; Tamekiyo, Yoshizou

    1989-01-01

    A new fixed mooring harbor in Sekinehama and surrounding land facilities to accommodate a test voyage for the nuclear-powered ship 'Mutsu' in 1990 were constructed by the Japan Atomic Energy Research Institute. Kobe Steel took part in the construction of the nuclear fuel treatment process in various facilities, beginning in October, 1988. This report describes the outline of the facility. (author)

  19. Modeling impact damper in building frames using GAP element

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Seyed Mehdi Zahrai

    2017-05-01

    Full Text Available Main effective factor in impact dampers to control vibration is to create disruption in structural oscillation amplitude using small forces induced by auxiliary masses to reduce strong vibrations. So far, modeling of the impact damper has been conducted solely through MATLAB software. Naturally, the functional aspects of this software are limited in research and development aspects compared to the common programs such as SAP2000 and ETABS. In this paper, a Single Degree of Freedom System, SDOF, is first modeled under harmonic loading with maximum amplitude of 0.4g in SAP2000 program. Then, the results are compared with numerical model. In this way, the proposed model is validated and the SDOF system equipped with an impact damper is investigated under the Kobe and Northridge earthquake records using SAP2000 model. Based on obtained results, the system equipped with an impact damper under the Kobe and Northridge earthquakes for structures considered in this study would have better seismic performance in which maximum displacements are reduced 6% and 33% respectively. Finally, impact dampers are modeled in a 4-story building structure with concentric bracing leading to 12% reduction in story drifts.

  20. A case of mitochondrial cardiomyopathy with restrictive transmitral filling pattern

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Otsui K

    2012-04-01

    Full Text Available Kazunori Otsui, Nobutaka Inoue, Anna Tamagawa, Kazuo OnishiDepartment of Cardiovascular Medicine, Kobe Rosai Hospital, Kobe, JapanAbstract: A 61-year-old diabetic woman with a mitochondrial A3243G mutation was hospitalized for evaluation of breathlessness, general fatigue, and leg edema. Chest radiography revealed cardiomegaly with massive pleural effusion. Serum lactate, pyruvate, and brain natriuretic peptide concentrations were elevated. Transthoracic echocardiography revealed a restrictive pattern of transmitral flow, although systolic function of the left ventricle was only mildly impaired. Based on these findings and her clinical course, the patient was diagnosed with right-sided heart failure caused by mitochondrial cardiomyopathy associated with a restrictive transmitral filling pattern. Treatment with furosemide, enalapril, and eplerenone was effective, and improvement in her symptoms was associated with amelioration of transthoracic echocardiographic findings and a reduction in serum brain natriuretic peptide levels. Previous reports have indicated heterogeneity in the clinical features of mitochondrial cardiomyopathy in patients carrying the A3243G mutation; the present case highlights the substantial variability in the clinical features of this disease.Keywords: mitochondrial disease, A3243G mutation, diastolic dysfunction, transmitral flow

  1. Seismic hazard map of the western hemisphere

    OpenAIRE

    Shedlock, K. M.; Tanner, J. G.

    1999-01-01

    Vulnerability to natural disasters increases with urbanization and development of associated support systems (reservoirs, power plants, etc.). Catastrophic earthquakes account for 60% of worldwide casualties associated with natural disasters. Economic damage from earthquakes is increasing, even in technologically advanced countries with some level of seismic zonation, as shown by the 1989 Loma Prieta, CA ($ 6 billion), 1994 Northridge, CA ($ 25 billion), and 1995 Kobe, Japan (> $ 100 billi...

  2. Plant-water relationships and growth of black walnut in a walnut-forage multicropping regime

    Science.gov (United States)

    Daniel C. Dey; M. R. Conway; H. E. Garrett; T. S. Hinckley; G. S. Cox

    1987-01-01

    Eastern black walnut seedlings were planted on a 1.5 ? 1.5m spacing in the spring of 1976 and irrigated throughout the growing season. During the spring of 1977, forage plots consisting of Kentucky 31 tall fescue, orchard grass, or Kobe lespedeza measuring 1 m wide and 10.2 m long and centered on a row of trees, were established with and without irrigation. Soil-water...

  3. Research and development project for large industrial technologies in fiscal 1989. Achievement report on research and development of manganese nodule mining system - Volume 2/6 (Edition for total system - experiment program); 1989 nendo mangan dankai saiko system no kenkyu kaihatsu seika hokokusho. 2/6. Total system (jikken keikaku) hen

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1990-03-01

    With an objective to ensure non-ferrous metal resources such as nickel, cobalt, copper and manganese, and enhance the ocean development technologies, research and development has been performed on a technology to mine by using the fluid dredge system the manganese nodules existing in ocean bottoms as deep as 4,000 to 6,000 m. This paper summarizes the achievements in fiscal 1989. This fiscal year has reviewed and rationalized the experiment program for the purpose of largely reducing the experimental expense without damaging the purpose and achievement of the experiment. In the rationalized program, such programs were established as the dock side test at the quay and off shore of the Kobe Shipyard, a comprehensive trial operation in the sea area with depth of about 2,000 m, and comprehensive experiments in the sea area around 9 degrees 10 minutes north latitude and 146 degrees 30 minutes west longitude with depth of 5,150 m. Based on these programs, discussions were given on the personnel plan, operation management, fuel, and lubrication oil for the experimental vessel. In addition, discussions were given on the operation, maintenance management, operation management, communications, safety control, and hurricane countermeasures as the experiment implementation procedures. Furthermore, such discussions were given as investigation and selection of the environmental effects and the experimental sea areas for the experiment system. (NEDO)

  4. Understanding the unique experiences, perspectives and sexual and reproductive health needs of very young adolescents: Somali refugees in Ethiopia.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Ortiz-Echevarria, Luis; Greeley, Meghan; Bawoke, Tenaw; Zimmerman, Linnea; Robinson, Courtland; Schlecht, Jennifer

    2017-01-01

    Kobe Refugee camp hosts roughly 39,000 refugees displaced from Somalia during the 2011-2012 Horn of Africa Crisis. Sexual and reproductive health, as with the greater issues of health and well-being for adolescents displaced from this crisis remain largely unknown and neglected. In 2013, the Women's Refugee Commission, Johns Hopkins University, and International Medical Corps in Ethiopia, implemented qualitative and quantitative research to explore the factors and risks that impact the health of very young adolescents (VYAs), those 10-14 years of age, in this setting. This paper presents findings from the qualitative effort. Focus group discussions (FGD), incorporating community mapping and photo elicitation activities, were conducted with 10-12 and 13-14 year-olds to obtain information about their own perspectives, experiences and values. FGDs were also implemented with 15-16 year-olds and adults, to consider their perspectives on the sexual and reproductive health needs and risks of VYAs. This research identified several factors that were found to influence the health and well-being of VYAs in Kobe refugee camp, including newfound access to education and security, combined with gender divisions and parental communication around early SRH and puberty that remained intact from traditional Somali culture. Girls were found to face an additional risk of child marriage and early pregnancy exacerbated since displacement, which significantly limited their ability to access education and achieve future aspirations. Findings from this study could help to inform future programs in Kobe and similar contexts involving long-term displacement from conflict, focusing on the health and development needs of VYAs. Future programs should consider the determinants of positive VYA health and development, including access to education, gender equity, and safety.By better understanding the unique experiences, perspectives and needs of VYAs, practitioners, policy makers and donors can

  5. Floating Ocean Platform

    Science.gov (United States)

    2003-08-15

    Proc ICOSSAR 89 5th Int Conf Struct Saf Reliab, 1989, p 183-190 Fukusumi, Tadahiro (Kobe Univ); Kusakabe, Kaoru , Dynamic response 162 characteristics...Harbor Research Institute, Ministry of Transport, Japan, October, 348--359, 1994 Maeda, N. and Morikawa, M. and Ishikawa , K. and Kakuta, Y., Fatigue...Harbor Research Institute, Ministry of Transport, Japan, October, 383--394, 1994 Morikawa, M. and Suzuki, H. and Ishikawa , K. and Komiya, H. and Yoshida

  6. Fabrication and characterization of LRE.sub.1+x./sub.Ba.sub.2-x./sub.Cu.sub.3./sub.O.sub.y./sub. (LRE:Nd, Eu, Gd,NEG) superconductors:a low oxygen partial pressure

    Czech Academy of Sciences Publication Activity Database

    Muralidhar, M.; Sakai, N.; Jirsa, Miloš; Murakami, M.

    378-381, - (2002), s. 646-650 ISSN 0921-4534. [International Symposium on Superconductors /14./. Kobe, 25.09.2001-27.09.2001] R&D Projects: GA AV ČR IAA1010919 Institutional research plan: CEZ:AV0Z1010914 Keywords : melt processing * microstructure * critical current density (J c ) * flux pinning * LRE-Ba2Cu3Oy Subject RIV: BM - Solid Matter Physics ; Magnetism Impact factor: 0.912, year: 2002

  7. ONR Far East Scientific Information Bulletin. Volume 15, Number 2

    Science.gov (United States)

    1990-06-01

    other Japanese propulsor concepts (Ref 14 matters, Professors Hisashi Kajitani and and 15) that were undergoing evaluation at Hiroharu Kato of Tokyo... Kimura Dept of Electrical Engineering 15-F200-J600 Faculty of Engineering Kyoto University Yoshida-honmachi Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606 August International...Symposium Kobe, Professor Hidenori Kimura 17-21 on the Mathematical Theory of Japan Dept. of Mechanical Engineering for Networks and Systems (MTNS-91

  8. Arhitektuuriuudised / Karen Jagodin

    Index Scriptorium Estoniae

    Jagodin, Karen, 1982-

    2007-01-01

    Mari Cucinella päikesepaneelidel töötav Pekingi uus ülikoolihoone. Arhitektuuristuudio Van der Merwe Miszewski projekteeritud eramu, mis koosneb kolmest, üksteisega risti asetsevast hooneosast, maastiku kujundaja Tarba Klitzner. Hiroaki Ohtani ribimaja 34 m2 suurusel krundil Kobes. AB Verstas Arkkitehdit Oy projekteeritud lahtise vahekäiguga saun. Gernot Hertli kuupjas eramaja romantilises Austria vanalinnas Waidhofen an der Ybbs. Pekka Mäki suvevilla Turu saarestiku kaljusel rannikul

  9. Analisi teorico-sperimentale di collegamenti dissipativi a parziale ripristino di resistenza in strutture intelaiate in acciaio

    OpenAIRE

    Latour, Massimo

    2011-01-01

    2009 - 2010 Before seismic events of Northridge (Los Angeles, 17 January 1994) and Hyogoken-Nanbu (Kobe, 17 January 1995) MRFs were supposed to be the most reliable seismic resistant systems due to the high number of dissipative zones that are able to develop Before these earthquakes, especially in United States, MRFs were realized, generally, by adopting fully welded connections, which, at the time, were retained to perform better compared to other joint typologies. In a...

  10. The Prevalence of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder and Its Modulation by Lifestyle and Psychological Factors in High School Students

    OpenAIRE

    Hapsari, Elsi Dwi; Mantani, Yuria; Matsuo, Hiroya

    2006-01-01

    The purposes of this study were to investigate the prevalence of PMDD in Japanese adolescent girls and identify PMDD modulation by lifestyle and psychological factors and compared the result with those in PMS. Self-reported questionnaires were delivered to 675 high school students in Kobe City from June to July 2004. Items of questionnaires have included student's background, menstruation, lifestyle factors and health difficulties. Diagnosis criteria of PMS from Mortola et al. and diagnosis o...

  11. Database Description - SSBD | LSDB Archive [Life Science Database Archive metadata

    Lifescience Database Archive (English)

    Full Text Available base Description General information of database Database name SSBD Alternative nam...ss 2-2-3 Minatojima-minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0047, Japan, RIKEN Quantitative Biology Center Shuichi Onami E-mail: Database... classification Other Molecular Biology Databases Database classification Dynamic databa...elegans Taxonomy ID: 6239 Taxonomy Name: Escherichia coli Taxonomy ID: 562 Database description Systems Scie...i Onami Journal: Bioinformatics/April, 2015/Volume 31, Issue 7 External Links: Original website information Database

  12. Database Description - GETDB | LSDB Archive [Life Science Database Archive metadata

    Lifescience Database Archive (English)

    Full Text Available abase Description General information of database Database name GETDB Alternative n...ame Gal4 Enhancer Trap Insertion Database DOI 10.18908/lsdba.nbdc00236-000 Creator Creator Name: Shigeo Haya... Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0047 Tel: +81-78-306-3185 FAX: +81-78-306-3183 E-mail: Database classification Expression... Invertebrate genome database Organism Taxonomy Name: Drosophila melanogaster Taxonomy ID: 7227 Database des...riginal website information Database maintenance site Drosophila Genetic Resource

  13. 〔報文〕泰西王侯騎馬図屏風の彩色材料調査

    OpenAIRE

    早川, 泰弘; 城野, 誠治

    2012-01-01

    The Western Kings on Horseback Screens,designated as important cultural properties, are masterpieces of the early period western style paintings that were created in the Momoyama to early Edo periods. Today this pair of screens is split between the collections of Suntory Museum of Art and the Kobe City Museum. Previously,they were handed down over the centuries at the Aizu Wakamatsu Castle, and their depiction clearly reveals western style painting techniques. However, the actual history of h...

  14. SOCIETAL IMPLICATIONS OF GREAT HANSHIN-AWAJI EARTHQUAKE DISASTER OF JANUARY 17,1995

    OpenAIRE

    Haruo, HAYASHI; Yoshiaki, KAWATA; Associate Professor, Research Center for Disaster Reduction Systems, Disaster Prevention Research Institute, Kyoto University; Professor, Research Center for Disaster Reduction Systems, Disaster Prevention Research Institute, Kyoto University

    1995-01-01

    A brief overview of what happened during the first month after the Hyogoken-nambu earthquake of January 17,1995 is given in terms both of the emergency responses initiated and the societal impact. For emergency responses, formal organization responses are discussed in reference to "Saigai taisaku kihon-ho (the Fundamental Disaster Management Law)" and "Saigai kyujyo-ho (the Disaster Relief Law)". Using the Kobe Fire Department as an example, search and rescue efforts as well as fire suppressi...

  15. Societal implications of great Hanshin-awaji earthquake disaster of January 17, 1995

    OpenAIRE

    KAWATA, Yoshiaki; HAYASHI, Haruo

    1995-01-01

    A brief overview of what happened during the first month after the Hyogoken-nambu earthquake of January 17, 1995 is given in terms both of the emergency responses initiated and the societal impact. For emergency responses, formal organization responses are discussed in reference to "Saigai taisaku kihon-ho (the Fundamental Disaster Management Law)" and "Saigai kyujyo-ho (the Disaster Relief Law)". Using the Kobe Fire Department as an example, search and rescue efforts as well as fire suppress...

  16. Visual Assessment on River Landscape in the Urban Fringe of Kobe City

    OpenAIRE

    Aristimuno, Ignacio; Yoshida, Hironobu

    1995-01-01

    本研究は, 神戸市西区伊川谷地域を縦貫する伊川を事例としてとりあげ, 住民の河川景観に関する視覚的選好を分析, 考察したものである。筆者らの同地域の先行調査ではこの地域の景観の中で最も保護すべきもののひとつとして, 伊川があげられていた。今回の調査では, 同地域の2地区の住民に各地区内の伊川とその周辺の景観デザイン例を見せてその選好を調査するとともにSD法を用いて分析した。調査結果として, 総合評価, 規模及び密度が主たる因子として抽出された。住民の選好傾向としては, 河川敷を散策しながら田園風景を楽しめるような自然的取り扱いが求められレクリェーション施設としても簡潔で自然的なデザインと親水性が求められた。...

  17. Functional and gene expression analysis of hTERT overexpressed endothelial cells

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Haruna Takano

    2008-09-01

    Full Text Available Haruna Takano1, Satoshi Murasawa1,2, Takayuki Asahara1,2,31Institute of Biomedical Research and Innovation, Kobe, Japan; 2RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology, Kobe 650-0047, Japan; 3Tokai University of School of Medicine, Tokai, JapanAbstract: Telomerase dysfunction contributes to cellular senescence. Recent advances indicate the importance of senescence in maintaining vascular cell function in vitro. Human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT overexpression is thought to lead to resistance to apoptosis and oxidative stress. However, the mechanism in endothelial lineage cells is unclear. We tried to generate an immortal endothelial cell line from human umbilical vein endothelial cells using a no-virus system and examine the functional mechanisms of hTERT overexpressed endothelial cell senescence in vitro. High levels of hTERT genes and endothelial cell-specific markers were expressed during long-term culture. Also, angiogenic responses were observed in hTERT overexpressed endothelial cell. These cells showed a delay in senescence and appeared more resistant to stressed conditions. PI3K/Akt-related gene levels were enhanced in hTERT overexpressed endothelial cells. An up-regulated PI3K/Akt pathway caused by hTERT overexpression might contribute to anti-apoptosis and survival effects in endothelial lineage cells.Keywords: endothelial, telomerase, senescence, oxidative stress, anti-apoptosis, PI3K/Akt pathway

  18. Waste-to-energy incineration plants as greenhouse gas reducers: a case study of seven Japanese metropolises.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Tabata, Tomohiro

    2013-11-01

    Municipal solid waste (MSW) incineration is a greenhouse gas (GHG) emitter; however, if GHG reductions, achieved by accounting for waste-to-energy, exceed GHG emissions, incineration can be considered as a net GHG reducer. In Japan, only 24.5% of MSW incineration plants perform energy recovery despite 80% of MSW being incinerated; therefore, there is great potential to extract more energy from MSW. In this study, the factors that should be considered to achieve net GHG reductions from incineration were analysed from a life cycle perspective. These considerations were then applied to the energy supply requirements in seven Japanese metropolises. Firstly, the carbon footprints of approximately 1500 incineration plants in Japan were calculated. Then, the incineration plants with negative carbon footprint values were classified as net GHG reducers. Next, the processes that contribute to the carbon footprint were evaluated, and two processes-plastic burning and electricity savings-were found to have the greatest influence. Based on the results, the energy supply requirements were analysed and discussed for seven metropolises (Sapporo, Tokyo, Nagoya, Osaka, Kobe, Takamatsu and Fukuoka) taking into account the energy demands of households. In Kobe, 16.2% of the electricity demand and 25.0% of the hot water demand could be satisfied by incineration to realise a net GHG reducer, although urban design for energy utilisation would be required.

  19. Sleep Problem of Children with Autistic Spectrum Disorder Assessed by Children Sleep Habits Questionnaire-Abbreviated in Indonesia and Japan.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Irwanto; Rehatta, Nancy Margarita; Hartini, Sri; Takada, Satoshi

    2016-07-04

    Sleep problems are associated with problems of cognitive functioning, learning, attention and school performance. It has been found that sleep problems are highly prevalent in children with Autistic spectrum disorders (ASD), with rates ranging from 40% to 80%. We aimed to identify the prevalence of sleep problems on children with ASD in Indonesia and Japan. A cross-sectional study was conducted in Surabaya, Indonesia and Kobe, Japan. Children aged 4 -10 years old were enrolled using stratified cluster sampling. Children's Sleep Habits Questionnaire-Abbreviated (CSHQ-A) was used in this research to assess the sleep problems, consisted of 22 questions (NICHD SECCYD-Wisconsin). Data were analyzed with Mann-Whitney U test to compare the CSHQ-A scores between Indonesian and Japanese children, while the proportion of sleep problems was evaluated by chi-square test with 95% confidence interval. Fifty children with ASD were included in this study, 25 children from Kobe, Japan and 25 children from Surabaya, Indonesia. The prevalence of sleep problems on children with ASD was 60% (15 children) in Indonesia and 16% (4 children) in Japan respectively. There were significant differences in total waking during the night and in morning wake for the CSHQ-A between children from Indonesia and Japan (psleep problems on children with ASD was higher in children from Indonesia than from Japan.

  20. An update on purple urine bag syndrome

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Hadano Y

    2012-08-01

    Full Text Available Yoshiro Hadano,1 Taro Shimizu,2 Shimon Takada,3 Toshiya Inoue,4 Sumire Sorano51Department of General Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Rakuwakai Otowa Hospital, Yamashina-ku, Kyoto, Japan; 2Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA; 3Department of General Internal Medicine, Osaka City General Hospital, Miyakojima-ku, Osaka, Japan; 4Department of Emergency Medicine, Urasoe General Hospital, Urasoe-city, Okinawa, Japan; 5Kobe University School of Medicine, Kusunokicho, Chuoku, Kobe, JapanAbstract: Purple urine bag syndrome is characterized by the urinary drainage bag turning purple in patients on prolonged urinary catheterization, especially those in the bedridden state. It is associated with bacterial urinary tract infections caused by indigo-producing and indirubin-producing bacteria, usually affects women, and is associated with alkaline urine, constipation, and a high bacterial load in the urine. Almost all patients with purple urine bag syndrome are catheterized due to significant disability, and the urinary pH is 7.0 or more. In general, intensive treatment with antibiotics is not recommended. Purple urine bag syndrome per se almost always appears to be asymptomatic and harmless. However, caution is needed, because some cases have been reported to show progression to severe disease states, so further research into the morbidity and mortality of this infection is warranted.Keywords: purple urine, urinary catheterization, geriatrics, urinary tract infection

  1. 神戸女学院岡田山キャンパスの高等植物相(I) : 総論および各論第1部 : シダ植物門・種子植物門,裸子植物亜門

    OpenAIRE

    野崎, 玲児; 熊取谷, 薫; 北川, 智美; 西原, 光恵; Reiji, NOZAKI; Kaoru, KUMATORIYA; Tomomi, KITAGAWA; Mitsue, NISHIHARA

    2006-01-01

    To make a vascular plant flora of 'Okadayama Campus', Kobe College, Hyogo Prefecture, wild plant species growing in the campus were surveyed, with the deposition of voucher specimens in the laboratory. Okadayama campus is located nearly in the southeastern corner of the Hyogo Prefecture, with the area of 14ha, and the altitude of 8 to 49m above sea level. Climatically, the campus lies in the warm-temperate zones, and under the influence of Seto inland-Sea type climate characterized by little ...

  2. Pump Damage in the Hanshin Earthquake

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Toshiyuki Osada

    2000-01-01

    Full Text Available There was a severe earthquake in the southern area ofHyogo prefecture in Japan on January 17, 1995. In this paper the damage to pump facilities caused by the earthquake, based on field investigation results in the Hanshin (Osaka–Kobe area is reported. In particular a lot of damage was reported in the pumping facilities for sewage or drainage of storm sewage. This paper also presents recommendations for aseismic design of pump facilities based on the results of the survey.

  3. Transport concept of new waste management system (inner packaging system)

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Hakozaki, K.; Wada, R.

    2004-01-01

    Kobe Steel, Ltd. (KSL) and Transnuclear Tokyo (TNT) have jointly developed a new waste management system concept (called ''Inner packaging system'') for high dose rate wastes generated from nuclear power plants under cooperation with Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO). The inner packaging system is designed as a total management system dedicated to the wastes from nuclear plants in Japan, covering from the wastes conditioning in power plants up to the disposal in final repository. This paper presents the new waste management system concept

  4. In Pursuit of New Liberal Arts Education : A Project for Further Development by the Department of Intercultural Studies(新しい教養教育をもとめて-総合文化学科の取り組み-)

    OpenAIRE

    The Department of Intercultural Studies

    2003-01-01

    This is a compiled file of a college-wide symposium held by the Department of Intercultural Studies at Kobe College on March 13, 2003. Titled "in Pursuit of New Liberal Arts Education," the whole program aims to reexamine our educational ideal and practice and to further cultivate our educational potential as a department of a liberal arts college. The first part of the program consists of a couple of presentations, one by Professor Takashi Furusho and the other by Professor Tatsuru Uchida. B...

  5. Measuring attachment to life in old age: the Portuguese version of the Positive Valuation of Life Scale (Positive VOL).

    Science.gov (United States)

    Araújo, Lia; Ribeiro, Oscar; Teixeira, Laetitia; Azevedo, Maria João; Jopp, Daniela S; Rott, Christoph; Paúl, Constança

    2015-10-01

    This study aims to present the psychometric properties of the Portuguese version of the Positive Valuation of Life Scale (Lawton et al. in J Aging Ment Healt 13:3-31, 2001). Sample included 207 community-dwelling elders (129 women; M Age = 77.2 years, SD = 7.5). The data collection included the translated and adapted Portuguese version of Positive Valuation of Life Scale, Life Satisfaction Index Z, Meaning in Life Questionnaire and Geriatric Depression Scale. From exploratory factor analysis, two factors emerged, existential beliefs and perceived control, explaining 49 % of the total variance. Both factors were positively related with meaning in life and life satisfaction and negatively related with depression (p 0.75). The Portuguese version of Positive VOL Scale represents a reliable and valid measure to capture the subjective experience of attachment to one's life. The two-factor structure is an update to Lawton's previous work and in line with findings obtained in the USA (Dennis et al. in What is valuation of life for frail community-dwelling older adults: factor structure and criterion validity of the VOL, Thomas Jefferson University, Center for Applied Research on Aging and Health Research, 2005) and Japan (Nakagawa et al. in Shinrigaku Kenkyu 84:37-46, 2013). Future research is required to investigate VOL predictors and the potential changes toward the end of the life span.

  6. 清国輪船招商局汽船の日本航行

    OpenAIRE

    松浦, 章

    2006-01-01

    The China Merchant's Steam Navigation Co. (C.M.S.N.Co.), a steamship company in China established in November, 1872 based on the proposal of Li Hong Zhang at the end of the Qing Dynasty, later developed to become one of the leading steamship companies of East Asia along with Japan's Nippon Yusen K.K. which was established in September, 1885. In Japan, Mitsubishi Comapany, which was the predecessor of Nippon Yusen K.K., opened a regular line from Yokohama to Shanghai via Kobe, Shimonoseki, and...

  7. NEDO Forum 2000. Solar technology development session (photovoltaic power generation system and our living); Taiyoko gijutsu kaihatsu session. Taiyoko hatsuden system to watashi tachi no kurashi

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    2000-09-01

    The following themes were presented at the present session: (1) energy and environmental problems, and expectation to the photovoltaic power generation system, (2) our living and photovoltaic power generation, and (3) energy policies of Kobe Municipality based on lessons from the earthquake disaster. Item (1) describes: if the total electric power obtained in 20 years from the photovoltaic power generation system of 3 kW output for residential houses is converted into amount of petroleum consumed by thermal power plants, it corresponds to about 850 twenty-liter polyethylene tanks; to build a photovoltaic power generation system, energy corresponding to about 100 polyethylene tanks is used; therefore, subtraction results in saving of about 750 tanks; ordinary houses discharge about 3,500 kg of CO2 annually; and the photovoltaic power generation system serves to reduce about 1,000 kg of CO2 emission annually. Item (2) describes: in markets in 2010, more than 80% of the power generation system is served for housing; profitable price of power generation value is about 55/kW; more than 50% of the value is occupied by the value for other than power generation; and more than 80% of the system for housing will be of roof-material type in 2005. Item (3) introduces the energy diversification taken by Kobe Municipality after the earthquake disaster, and the energy policies, including the 'life spot' policy. (NEDO)

  8. Can Hybrid Educational Activities of Team and Problem Based Learning Program be Effective for Japanese Medical Students?

    Science.gov (United States)

    Iwata, Kentaro; Doi, Asako

    2017-11-10

    The purpose of this study is to investigate the medical students'perceptions of the Hybrid Educational Activities between team based learning (TBL) and problem based learning (PBL) Program (HEATAPP), a novel educational program that combines characteristics of PBL and TBL. A five-day HEATAPP on infectious diseases was provided to 4th year medical students at Kobe University School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan. After the program, a focus group discussion was held among 6 medical students who participated in HEATAPP. We qualitatively analyzed the recorded data to delineate the effectiveness of, and the perceptions on, HEATAPP. Some students considered HEATAPP being effective as an active learning, and in developing questions. However, some students found active learning difficult to execute, since they were so familiar with passive learning such as lectures and examinations. They also found it difficult to identify important points by reading authentic textbooks on given issues, particularly English textbooks. Even though active learning and group discussion are underscored as important in medicine, some Japanese medical students may be reluctant to shift towards these since they are so used to passive learning since childhood. English language is another barrier to active learning. The introduction of active learning in the earlier stages of education might be an effective solution. Teachers at medical schools in Japan should be mindful of the students'potentially negative attitudes towards active learning, which is claimed to be successful in western countries.

  9. Neurological outcomes in symptomatic congenital cytomegalovirus-infected infants after introduction of newborn urine screening and antiviral treatment.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Nishida, Kosuke; Morioka, Ichiro; Nakamachi, Yuji; Kobayashi, Yoko; Imanishi, Takamitsu; Kawano, Seiji; Iwatani, Sota; Koda, Tsubasa; Deguchi, Masashi; Tanimura, Kenji; Yamashita, Daisuke; Nibu, Ken-Ichi; Funakoshi, Toru; Ohashi, Masanobu; Inoue, Naoki; Iijima, Kazumoto; Yamada, Hideto

    2016-02-01

    Newborn screening for urinary cytomegalovirus (CMV) and early introduction of antiviral treatment are expected to improve neurological outcomes in symptomatic congenital CMV-infected infants. This cohort study prospectively evaluated neurological outcomes in symptomatic congenital CMV-infected infants following the introduction of hospital-based newborn urinary CMV screening and antiviral treatment. Following institutional review board approval and written informed consent from their parents, newborns were prospectively screened from 2009 to 2014 for urinary CMV-DNA by PCR within 1 week after birth at Kobe University Hospital and affiliated hospitals. CMV-positive newborns were further examined at Kobe University Hospital, and those diagnosed as symptomatic were treated with valganciclovir for 6 weeks plus immunoglobulin. Clinical neurological outcomes were evaluated at age ⩾12 months and categorized by the presence and severity of neurologic sequelae. Urine samples of 6348 newborns were screened, with 32 (0.50%) positive for CMV. Of these, 16 were diagnosed with symptomatic infection and 12 received antiviral treatment. Four infants developed severe impairment (33%), three developed mild impairment (25%), and five developed normally (42%). This is the first Japanese report of neurological assessments in infants with symptomatic congenital CMV infection who received early diagnosis and antiviral treatment. Urinary screening, resulting in early diagnosis and treatment, may yield better neurological outcomes in symptomatic congenital CMV-infected infants. Copyright © 2015 The Japanese Society of Child Neurology. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  10. Study on comparison of special moment frame steel structure (SMF) and base isolation special moment frame steel structure (BI-SMF) in Indonesia

    Science.gov (United States)

    Setiawan, Jody; Nakazawa, Shoji

    2017-10-01

    This paper discusses about comparison of seismic response behaviors, seismic performance and seismic loss function of a conventional special moment frame steel structure (SMF) and a special moment frame steel structure with base isolation (BI-SMF). The validation of the proposed simplified estimation method of the maximum deformation of the base isolation system by using the equivalent linearization method and the validation of the design shear force of the superstructure are investigated from results of the nonlinear dynamic response analysis. In recent years, the constructions of steel office buildings with seismic isolation system are proceeding even in Indonesia where the risk of earthquakes is high. Although the design code for the seismic isolation structure has been proposed, there is no actual construction example for special moment frame steel structure with base isolation. Therefore, in this research, the SMF and BI-SMF buildings are designed by Indonesian Building Code which are assumed to be built at Padang City in Indonesia. The material of base isolation system is high damping rubber bearing. Dynamic eigenvalue analysis and nonlinear dynamic response analysis are carried out to show the dynamic characteristics and seismic performance. In addition, the seismic loss function is obtained from damage state probability and repair cost. For the response analysis, simulated ground accelerations, which have the phases of recorded seismic waves (El Centro NS, El Centro EW, Kobe NS and Kobe EW), adapted to the response spectrum prescribed by the Indonesian design code, that has, are used.

  11. Psychological Structuring of citizen's willingness for seismic reinforcement of houses *

    OpenAIRE

    Kawarasaki, Yuta; Morita, Eri; Takezaki, Mayu; Nakagawa, Yoshinori; Nasu, Seigo

    2008-01-01

    The Japanese Islands are said to have entered at the seismic activity term from the time of the Kobe earthquake (1995). And it is said that the big earthquake from Hokkaido to Kyushu occurs in the probability of 90% within 50 years. When such a big earthquake occurs, collapse of a structure is one of main causes of bringing about serious damage. The Building Standard Law was improved in the past earthquake, and the building structure which is less than a Building Standard Law act has the very...

  12. 雨水の酸性度を決定する要素について

    OpenAIRE

    平木, 隆年; 玉置, 元則; 堀口, 光章; 光田, 寧

    1989-01-01

    Four years rainfall from 1984 to 1988 were collected in Kobe, and were analyzed for pHand electric conductivity. pH values were ranged from 3.27 to 6.95. Yearly variation of pHvalue was not recognized.Rain events were classified into 4 categories, front type, low pressure type, trough typeand typhoon type. The front type rainfall yielded the lowest mean pH value (4.30), and lowpressure type showed higher pH value (4.70). The pH value was seen to be related to theintensity of updraft.

  13. Science Communication in Denmark

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Busch, Henrik

    2005-01-01

    This paper was presented during the author?s visit at the Faculty of Human Development of the University of Kobe . The paper is intended to provide the knowledge about science communication in the Nordic countries (in particular in Denmark). The focus in the paper is on (i) examples of new...... and innovative modes of science communication in Denmark and (ii) educational programs for science communicators. Furthermore, emphasis is on the pedagogical ideas behind the initiatives, rather than on thorough descriptions of structures, curricula and evaluations of the projects....

  14. A plasma melting system for solid radioactive waste

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Higashi, Yasuo; Sugimoto, Masahiko; Fujitomi, Masashi; Noura, Tsuyoshi

    2003-01-01

    Kobe Steel has developed a plasma melting system for the volume reduction and stabilization of solid radioactive wastes such as concrete, insulation, filters, glass, sand etc. The main features of the system are as follows. (1) Non-transfer air plasma torches: 1.3 MW x 2 (2) Treatment capacity: 2 tons/batch (3) Waste feed: 200 liter drums (4) Tapping method: furnace tilting (5) Molten slag cooling: in the system's chambers. In this paper, an outline of the system and its first-run performance results are described. (author)

  15. Experimental characterisation of the interfacial structure during counter-current flow limitation in a model of the hot leg of a PWR

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Vallee, C., E-mail: c.vallee@hzdr.de [Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), Inst. of Safety Research, Dresden (Germany); Nariai, T.; Futatsugi, T.; Tomiyama, A., E-mail: nariai@cfrg.scitec.kobe-u.ac.jp, E-mail: futatsugi@cfrg.scitec.kobe-u.ac.jp, E-mail: tomiyama@mech.kobe-u.ac.jp [Kobe Univ., Graduate School of Engineering, Kobe (Japan); Lucas, D., E-mail: d.lucas@hzdr.de [Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), Inst. of Safety Research, Dresden (Germany); Murase, M., E-mail: murase@inss.co.jp [Inst. of Nuclear Safety System, Inc. (INSS), Fukui (Japan)

    2011-07-01

    In order to investigate the two-phase flow behaviour during counter-current flow limitation in the hot leg of a pressurised water reactor, dedicated experiments were performed in a scaled down model of Kobe University. The structure of the interface was observed from the side of the channel test section using a high-speed video camera. An algorithm was developed to recognise the stratified interface in the camera frames after background subtraction. The evolution of the water level along the hot leg is analysed in function of the liquid and gas flow rates. (author)

  16. Nadvid Ubushiev, About Great Kalmyk Noblemen

    OpenAIRE

    Okonov, Andzhur; Oshaev, Nikolai

    2015-01-01

    Nadvid talks about the following historical figures: Kho Orlyuk, Dalai Baatr, Donduk Ombo Khan, Guvzh Dorzh Noyon Khan, Ayuka Khan and Mazan Baatr. Kho Orlyuk had 7 territorial units, whereas Dalai Baatr had only 1. In 1609, the two signed an agreement but soon afterwards fell out with each other. In 1623 in the Year of the Rabbit, Dalai Baatr separated from the rest and took his people with him. He built a temple in a place called Okn Gazryn Kobe Tosn Bura and invited monks from Tibet. In ...

  17. Proceedings of the 3rd workshop on balloon-borne experiments with superconducting magnet spectrometers

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Yamamoto, Akira

    1992-04-01

    The Third Work Shop on Balloon Borne Experiment with a Superconducting Magnet Spectrometer was held at National Laboratory for High Energy Physics (KEK), Tsukuba, Japan on February 24 - 25, 1992. The main effort for this workshop was focused on the progress of the BESS (Balloon Borne Experiment with a Superconducting Spectrometer) experiment and on the scope for scientific investigation with the BESS detector. The progress was reviewed and further investigation was discussed for the BESS further scientific collaboration among Univ. of Tokyo, Kobe University, KEK, ISAS and NMSU. (J.P.N.)

  18. Borated aluminum alloy manufacturing technology

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Shimojo, Jun; Taniuchi, Hiroaki; Kajihara, Katsura; Aruga, Yasuhiro

    2003-01-01

    Borated aluminum alloy is used as the basket material of cask because of its light weight, thermal conductivity and superior neutron absorbing abilities. Kobe Steel has developed a unique manufacturing process for borated aluminum alloy using a vacuum induction melting method. In this process, aluminum alloy is melted and agitated at higher temperatures than common aluminum alloy fabrication methods. It is then cast into a mold in a vacuum atmosphere. The result is a high quality aluminum alloy which has a uniform boron distribution and no impurities. (author)

  19. Social cognition and its relationship to functional outcomes in patients with sustained acquired brain injury

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Ubukata S

    2014-11-01

    Full Text Available Shiho Ubukata,1,2 Rumi Tanemura,2 Miho Yoshizumi,1 Genichi Sugihara,1 Toshiya Murai,1 Keita Ueda1 1Department of Psychiatry, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, 2Department of Rehabilitation Science, Graduate School of Health Sciences, Kobe University, Kobe, Japan Abstract: Deficits in social cognition are common after traumatic brain injury (TBI. However, little is known about how such deficits affect functional outcomes. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between social cognition and functional outcomes in patients with TBI. We studied this relationship in 20 patients with TBI over the course of 1 year post-injury. Patients completed neurocognitive assessments and social cognition tasks. The social cognition tasks included an emotion-perception task and three theory of mind tasks: the Faux Pas test, Reading the Mind in the Eyes (Eyes test, and the Moving-Shapes paradigm. The Craig Handicap Assessment and Reporting Technique was used to assess functional outcomes. Compared with our database of normal subjects, patients showed impairments in all social cognition tasks. Multiple regression analysis revealed that theory of mind ability as measured by the Eyes test was the best predictor of the cognitive aspects of functional outcomes. The findings of this pilot study suggest that the degree to which a patient can predict what others are thinking is an important measure that can estimate functional outcomes over 1 year following TBI. Keywords: Eyes test, social emotion perception, social function, social participation, theory of mind

  20. Community intervention to increase neighborhood social network among Japanese older adults.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Harada, Kazuhiro; Masumoto, Kouhei; Katagiri, Keiko; Fukuzawa, Ai; Chogahara, Makoto; Kondo, Narihiko; Okada, Shuichi

    2018-03-01

    Strengthening neighborhood social networks is important for promoting health among older adults. However, effective intervention strategies aimed at increasing older adults' social networks have not yet been established. The present study examined whether a university-led community intervention that provided communication opportunities could increase older Japanese adults' neighborhood social networks. The present study used a quasi-experimental design. Before the intervention, using postal mail, we carried out a baseline questionnaire survey that was sent to all people living in the Tsurukabuto community aged ≥60 years (n = 1769), of whom 1068 responded. For the community intervention, 18 event-based programs were provided over the course of 1 year at Kobe University. Academic staff at Kobe University organized all the programs. During the program, social interactions among participants were promoted. A follow-up survey was distributed to those who responded to the baseline survey, and 710 individuals answered the question about their participation in the intervention programs (138 respondents were participants, 572 were non-participants). The neighborhood social network was measured in both the baseline and follow-up surveys. Analysis of covariance showed that the changes in neighborhood social network among participants in the program was significantly higher than the changes among non-participants (P = 0.046) after adjusting for the baseline score of social network. The present study found that participants of the intervention expanded their neighborhood social network, but non-participants did not. This finding shows that community interventions using university resources could increase older adults' neighborhood social networks. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2018; 18: 462-469. © 2017 Japan Geriatrics Society.

  1. Radiotherapy for the medulloblastoma

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Gose, Kyuhei; Imajo, Yoshinari; Imanaka, Kazufumi

    1983-01-01

    Eighteen patients with medulloblastoma, treated between 1972 and 1981, at Kobe University School of Medicine, were retrospectively studied. Of those completing post operative irradiation, 50% have survived for 2 years, 15% for 5 years and mean survival periods was 22.2 months. 13 out of 18 patients developed local recurrence and spinal dissemination. The mean time from the initial radiotherapy to recurrence was 8.5 months. It was suggested that posterior fossa should recieve 5,000 rad, the spine should 2,000 rad and recurrences should be treated by the combination of radiotherapy and chemotherapy. (author)

  2. Concluding remarks to ICAME2011

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Campbell, S. J., E-mail: Stewart.Campbell@adfa.edu.au [University of New South Wales, School of Physical, Environmental and Mathematical Sciences (Australia)

    2012-03-15

    An overview of the main aspects of ICAME2011 - tutorial lectures, oral and poster presentations, evening sessions - is presented along with a brief outline of several of the scientific highlights. Among other topics considered are the involvements of young scientists and female scientists, and operation of the oral and poster sessions. Despite the most challenging combinations of circumstances in the lead up to ICAME2011 that resulted in the change of venue at an advanced stage from Tokyo to Kobe, the Committee organised a high quality conference with many positive outcomes for the future. The Moessbauer community acknowledges and appreciates these efforts greatly.

  3. Usefulness of the 6-minute walk test as a screening test for pulmonary arterial enlargement in COPD

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Oki Y

    2016-11-01

    Full Text Available Yutaro Oki,1,2 Masahiro Kaneko,3 Yukari Fujimoto,1 Hideki Sakai,2 Shogo Misu,1,2 Yuji Mitani,1,4 Takumi Yamaguchi,1,2 Hisafumi Yasuda,1 Akira Ishikawa1 1Department of Community Health Sciences, Kobe University Graduate School of Health Sciences, 2Department of Rehabilitation, 3Department of Respiratory Medicine, Kobe City Medical Center West Hospital, Kobe, 4Department of Rehabilitation, Sapporo Nishimaruyama Hospital, Sapporo, Japan Purpose: Pulmonary hypertension and exercise-induced oxygen desaturation (EID influence acute exacerbation of COPD. Computed tomography (CT-detected pulmonary artery (PA enlargement is independently associated with acute COPD exacerbations. Associations between PA to aorta (PA:A ratio and EID in patients with COPD have not been reported. We hypothesized that the PA:A ratio correlated with EID and that results of the 6-minute walk test (6MWT would be useful for predicting the risk associated with PA:A >1.Patients and methods: We retrospectively measured lung function, 6MWT, emphysema area, and PA enlargement on CT in 64 patients with COPD. The patients were classified into groups with PA:A ≤1 and >1. Receiver-operating characteristic curves were used to determine the threshold values with the best cutoff points to predict patients with PA:A >1.Results: The PA:A >1 group had lower forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1, forced vital capacity (FVC, FEV1:FVC ratio, diffusion capacity of lung carbon monoxide, 6MW distance, and baseline peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2, lowest SpO2, highest modified Borg scale results, percentage low-attenuation area, and history of acute COPD exacerbations ≤1 year, and worse BODE (Body mass index, airflow Obstruction, Dyspnea, and Exercise index results (P<0.05. Predicted PA:A >1 was determined for SpO2 during 6MWT (best cutoff point 89%, area under the curve 0.94, 95% confidence interval 0.88–1. SpO2 <90% during 6MWT showed a sensitivity of 93.1, specificity of 94

  4. Study on construction of temporary dwellings and problems caused by living long time on Hanshin-Awaji Great Earthquake; Hanshin / Awaji daishinsai ni okeru okyu kasetsu jutaku no secchi to chokikan shiyo suru baai no kadai ni kansuru chosa

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Takahashi, K.; Nakamura, Y. [Nagasaki Univ. (Japan)] Shimizu, Y. [Kumagai Gumi Co. Ltd., Tokyo (Japan)

    1998-10-20

    Two years after the above-titled earthquake, an examination was performed on inhabitants in the temporary dwelling houses in Kobe, center of the calamity, and problems caused by a long stay there were clarified together with a grasp of the evolving problems by comparing the result of survey carried out immediately after the disaster. The number of such temporary dwelling houses amounted to 29,128 within Kobe City and 3,168 outside of the city. According to the room arrangement, they were either one f 4 types : 2-rooms with a kitchen, 1 room with a kitchen, dormitory and those specifically for aged persons. There were 59,449 applications at the first offer of 2,702 houses. The priority of their assignments and so on are explained. As for the housing structure, numerous complaints concerned with the room temperature, noise and so forth. As for the living environment, lack of nearby commodity shop, omission of transportation access, ill drainage of the housing sites were pointed out and the matters of demand to the local authorities included the installation of mail post and street lights. As for the health management, insomnia, stiff shoulder, lumbago and other bad physical conditions were revealed. The financial difficulty and the high house rent were obstacles to migrate to other places. The prolonged temporary lives worsened the apprehension of dwellers for the earthquake, typhoon, fire and alike. Some features for the calamity are described in comparison with the result of survey on those who were compelled to live under similar conditions by the eruption of Mr. Fugen. 6 refs., 13 figs., 15 tabs.

  5. Concluding remarks to ICAME2011

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Campbell, S. J.

    2012-01-01

    An overview of the main aspects of ICAME2011 – tutorial lectures, oral and poster presentations, evening sessions - is presented along with a brief outline of several of the scientific highlights. Among other topics considered are the involvements of young scientists and female scientists, and operation of the oral and poster sessions. Despite the most challenging combinations of circumstances in the lead up to ICAME2011 that resulted in the change of venue at an advanced stage from Tokyo to Kobe, the Committee organised a high quality conference with many positive outcomes for the future. The Mössbauer community acknowledges and appreciates these efforts greatly.

  6. EPOS1 - a multiparameter measuring system to earthquake prediction research

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Streil, T.; Oeser, V. [SARAD GmbH, Dresden (Germany); Heinicke, J.; Koch, U.; Wiegand, J.

    1998-12-31

    The approach to earthquake prediction by geophysical, geochemical and hydrological measurements is a long and winding road. Nevertheless, the results show a progress in that field (e.g. Kobe). This progress is also a result of a new generation of measuring equipment. SARAD has developed a versatile measuring system (EPOS1) based on experiences and recent results from different research groups. It is able to record selected parameters suitable to earthquake prediction research. A micro-computer system handles data exchange, data management and control. It is connected to a modular sensor system. Sensor modules can be selected according to the actual needs at the measuring site. (author)

  7. Study on vibration behaviors of engineered barrier system

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Mikoshiba, Tadashi; Ogawa, Nobuyuki; Minowa, Chikahiro [National Research Inst. for Earth Science and Disaster Prevention, Tsukuba, Ibaraki (Japan)

    1999-02-01

    Small engineered barrier model was mode and tested by vibrating with the random wave and the real earthquake wave. The wave observed at Kamaishi (N-S, N-W), Iwate Prefecture, in September 6, 1993, and Kobe (N-S) etc. were used as the real earthquake waves. The trial overpack showed non-linear characteristics (soft spring) by vibrating with the random wave. The pressure and acceleration of trial overpack and constraint container increased with increasing the vibration level of the real earthquake wave. The trial overpack moved the maximum 1.7 mm of displacement and 16 mm subsidence. The results showed both waves rocked the trialpack. (S.Y.)

  8. Applications of low-density foams for x-ray source studies and laser beam smoothing

    Czech Academy of Sciences Publication Activity Database

    Limpouch, J.; Renner, Oldřich; Borisenko, N.G.; Klír, D.; Kmetík, Viliam; Krouský, Eduard; Liska, R.; Mašek, Karel; Nazarov, W.; Ullschmied, Jiří

    2008-01-01

    Roč. 112, 042056 (2008), s. 1-4 ISSN 1742-6588. [The Fifth International Conference on Inertial Fusion Sciences and Applications (IFSA2007). Kobe, 09.09.2007-14.09.2007] R&D Projects: GA MŠk(CZ) LC528; GA ČR GA202/06/0801 Institutional research plan: CEZ:AV0Z10100523; CEZ:AV0Z20430508 Keywords : plasma * x-ray generation * energy transport in plasma * bremsstrahlung * laser-light transmission through inhomogeneous plasma * laser-propagation in undercritical plasma Subject RIV: BL - Plasma and Gas Discharge Physics http://www.iop.org/EJ/article/1742-6596/112/4/042056/jpconf8_112_042056.pdf

  9. An observational study of duloxetine versus SSRI monotherapy for the treatment of painful physical symptoms in Japanese patients with major depressive disorder: primary analysis

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Kuga A

    2017-08-01

    Full Text Available Atsushi Kuga,1 Toshinaga Tsuji,2 Shinji Hayashi,2 Mako Matsubara,3 Shinji Fujikoshi,4 Hirofumi Tokuoka,1 Aki Yoshikawa,5 Rodrigo Escobar,6 Kazuhide Tanaka,7 Takaharu Azekawa8 1Bio Medicine, Medicines Development Unit Japan, Eli Lilly Japan K.K., Kobe, Japan; 2Medical Affairs Department, Shionogi & Co. Ltd, Osaka, Japan; 3Pharmacovigilance Department, Shionogi & Co. Ltd, Osaka, Japan; 4Statistical Science, Medicines Development Unit Japan, Eli Lilly Japan K.K., Kobe, Japan; 5Scientific Communications, Medicines Development Unit Japan, Eli Lilly Japan K.K. Kobe, Japan; 6Bio-Medicines, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, IN, USA; 7Hitsuji Clinic, Kusatsu, Japan; 8Shioiri Mental Clinic, Yokosuka, Japan Objective: The objective of this study was to assess the effectiveness of duloxetine monotherapy, in comparison with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI monotherapy, in the treatment of painful physical symptoms (PPS in Japanese patients with major depressive disorder (MDD in real-world clinical settings.Methods: This was a multicenter, 12-week prospective, observational study. This study enrolled MDD patients with at least moderate PPS, defined as a Brief Pain Inventory-Short Form (BPI-SF average pain score (item 5 ≥3. Patients were treated with duloxetine or SSRIs (escitalopram, sertraline, paroxetine, or fluvoxamine for 12 weeks, and PPS were assessed by BPI-SF average pain score. The primary outcome was early improvement in the BPI-SF average pain score at 4 weeks post-baseline. Results: A total of 523 patients were evaluated for treatment effectiveness (duloxetine N=273, SSRIs N=250. The difference in BPI-SF average pain score between the two groups was not statistically significant at 4 weeks post-baseline, the primary endpoint (least-squares mean change from baseline [95% confidence interval]: duloxetine,−2.8 [−3.1, −2.6]; SSRIs, −2.5 [−2.8, −2.3]; P=0.166. There was a numerical advantage for duloxetine in improvement

  10. Influences of peers’ and family members’ body shapes on perception of body image and desire for thinness in Japanese female students

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Mase T

    2015-06-01

    Full Text Available Tomoki Mase,1 Kumiko Ohara,2,3 Chiemi Miyawaki,4 Katsuyasu Kouda,5 Harunobu Nakamura2 1Department of Childhood Education, Kyoto Seibo College, Kyoto, Japan; 2Graduate School of Human Development and Environment, Kobe University, Kobe, Japan; 3Research Fellow of Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, Tokyo, Japan; 4Department of Early Childhood Education, Heian Jogakuin (St Agnes’ College, Kyoto, Japan; 5Department of Public Health, Kinki University Faculty of Medicine, Osakasayama, Japan Purpose: The present study investigated the influence of peers’ and family members’ body shapes on the perception of body image and desire for thinness in Japanese female students.Methods: The study included 342 female, Japanese university students between the ages of 18 years and 22 years. They completed an anonymous questionnaire, which included questions related to anthropometry and body perception. Eating behavior was assessed by the Japanese version of the Eating Attitude Test-26.Results: Many students overestimated their body shape (81.2% of underweight students and 74.6% of normal students and had a desire for thinness (41.0% of underweight students, 88.2% of normal students, and 100% of overweight students. One of the main reasons for the overestimation of their body shape was comparison with others. Participants who were interested in a friend’s body shape were almost three times more likely to have a desire for thinness than those who were not interested in a female friend’s body shape (odds ratio: 3.06, P=0.014.Conclusion: The results indicate a possibility that a female Japanese student’s young female friends’ body shapes, influences her desire for thinness or her perception of her own body shape. Keywords: body perception, body shape, desire for thinness, female students 

  11. Recent Progress of Seismic Observation Networks in Japan

    Science.gov (United States)

    Okada, Y.

    2013-04-01

    Before the occurrence of disastrous Kobe earthquake in 1995, the number of high sensitivity seismograph stations operated in Japan was nearly 550 and was concentrated in the Kanto and Tokai districts, central Japan. In the wake of the Kobe earthquake, Japanese government has newly established the Headquarters for Earthquake Research Promotion and started the reconstruction of seismic networks to evenly cover the whole Japan. The basic network is composed of three seismographs, i.e. high sensitivity seismograph (Hi-net), broadband seismograph (F-net), and strong motion seismograph (K-NET). A large majority of Hi-net stations are also equipped with a pair of strong motion sensors at the bottom of borehole and the ground surface (KiK-net). A plenty of high quality data obtained from these networks are circulated at once and is producing several new seismological findings as well as providing the basis for the Earthquake Early Warning system. In March 11, 2011, "Off the Pacific coast of Tohoku Earthquake" was generated with magnitude 9.0, which records the largest in the history of seismic observation in Japan. The greatest disaster on record was brought by huge tsunami with nearly 20 thousand killed or missing people. We are again noticed that seismic observation system is quite poor in the oceanic region compared to the richness of it in the inland region. In 2012, NIED has started the construction of ocean bottom seismic and tsunami observation network along the Japan Trench. It is planned to layout 154 stations with an average spacing of 30km, each of which is equipped with an accelerometer for seismic observation and a water pressure gauge for tsunami observation. We are expecting that more rapid and accurate warning of earthquake and tsunami becomes possible by this observing network.

  12. Recent Progress of Seismic Observation Networks in Japan

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Okada, Y

    2013-01-01

    Before the occurrence of disastrous Kobe earthquake in 1995, the number of high sensitivity seismograph stations operated in Japan was nearly 550 and was concentrated in the Kanto and Tokai districts, central Japan. In the wake of the Kobe earthquake, Japanese government has newly established the Headquarters for Earthquake Research Promotion and started the reconstruction of seismic networks to evenly cover the whole Japan. The basic network is composed of three seismographs, i.e. high sensitivity seismograph (Hi-net), broadband seismograph (F-net), and strong motion seismograph (K-NET). A large majority of Hi-net stations are also equipped with a pair of strong motion sensors at the bottom of borehole and the ground surface (KiK-net). A plenty of high quality data obtained from these networks are circulated at once and is producing several new seismological findings as well as providing the basis for the Earthquake Early Warning system. In March 11, 2011, 'Off the Pacific coast of Tohoku Earthquake' was generated with magnitude 9.0, which records the largest in the history of seismic observation in Japan. The greatest disaster on record was brought by huge tsunami with nearly 20 thousand killed or missing people. We are again noticed that seismic observation system is quite poor in the oceanic region compared to the richness of it in the inland region. In 2012, NIED has started the construction of ocean bottom seismic and tsunami observation network along the Japan Trench. It is planned to layout 154 stations with an average spacing of 30km, each of which is equipped with an accelerometer for seismic observation and a water pressure gauge for tsunami observation. We are expecting that more rapid and accurate warning of earthquake and tsunami becomes possible by this observing network.

  13. Development and simulation of the air-jack for emergency like a huge disaster; Kyujoyo eajakki no kaihatsu to sono simyureshon

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Katsuyama, Kunihisa.; Ogata, Yuji.; Wada, Yuji. [National Institute for Resources and Environment, Tsukuba (Japan); Hashizume, Kiyoshi.; Nishida, Kenjiro. [Nippon Kayaku Corp., Tokyo (Japan)

    1999-02-28

    When a disaster is so huge like Kobe earthquake, every energy line is killed. Even if we want to help the sufferers, we have no energy to move machines to help them. As collapsed houses are very heavy, we need machines to remove collapsed stuff. Explosives include a lot of energy in themselves. So, an air-jack which has explosives inside was developed to remove collapsed stuff on suffered people. A simple air-jack was made and tested. One concrete block, 50cm x 50cm x 50cm, was lifted by the simple air-jack. A simulation of lifting the concrete block was carried out with a programme ANSYS on the super computer. (author)

  14. Seismic response analysis for hinged-leg type port crane

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kashiwazaki, A.; Kanayama, T.; Arai, K. [Ishikawajima-Harima Heavy Industries Co. Ltd., Tokyo (Japan)

    2000-04-01

    Container cranes and unloaders in Kobe Pont were severely damaged during the Southern Hyogo Prefecture Earthquake in 1995. Notably, some of the hinged-leg type of cranes with hinges at the end of sea-or land-side of legs were overturned. These damages were derived from the uplifting of their legs. To explain the uplifting and overturning behavior, we carried out nonlinear analyses and shaking table tests using a 1/8-scale model of the container crane. The results of nonlinear response analyses of hinged-leg type of crane, which are in an agreement with the state of damages in the Southern Hyogo Prefecture Earthquake and the result of shaking table tests, are described. (author)

  15. Integrate urban‐scale seismic hazard analyses with the U.S. National Seismic Hazard Model

    Science.gov (United States)

    Moschetti, Morgan P.; Luco, Nicolas; Frankel, Arthur; Petersen, Mark D.; Aagaard, Brad T.; Baltay, Annemarie S.; Blanpied, Michael; Boyd, Oliver; Briggs, Richard; Gold, Ryan D.; Graves, Robert; Hartzell, Stephen; Rezaeian, Sanaz; Stephenson, William J.; Wald, David J.; Williams, Robert A.; Withers, Kyle

    2018-01-01

    For more than 20 yrs, damage patterns and instrumental recordings have highlighted the influence of the local 3D geologic structure on earthquake ground motions (e.g., M">M 6.7 Northridge, California, Gao et al., 1996; M">M 6.9 Kobe, Japan, Kawase, 1996; M">M 6.8 Nisqually, Washington, Frankel, Carver, and Williams, 2002). Although this and other local‐scale features are critical to improving seismic hazard forecasts, historically they have not been explicitly incorporated into the U.S. National Seismic Hazard Model (NSHM, national model and maps), primarily because the necessary basin maps and methodologies were not available at the national scale. Instead,...

  16. Development of fuel assembly seismic analysis against vertical and horizontal earthquake

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Sato, T.; Akitake, J.; Kobayashi, H.; Azumi, S.; Koike, H.; Takeda, N.; Suzuki, S.

    2001-01-01

    Vertical vibration with large acceleration was observed in KOBE earthquake in 1995. Concerning PWR fuel assembly, though the vertical response has been calculated by a static analysis, it had better be calculated by a dynamic analysis in detail. Furthermore, mutual effects between horizontal and vertical motions attract our attention. For these reasons, a dynamic analysis method in the vertical direction was developed and linked with the previously developed method in the horizontal direction. This is the method that takes effect of vertical vibration into the horizontal vibration analysis as the change of horizontal stiffness, which is brought by axial compressive force. In this paper, fundamental test results for developing the method are introduced and summary of the advanced method's procedure and analysis results are also described. (authors)

  17. Confirmation tests of PWR surveillance capsule shipping container

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Tomita, N.; Ue, K.; Ohashi, M.; Asada, K.; Yoneda, Y.

    1980-01-01

    Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. carried out the confirmation tests to confirm the reliability of the PWR surveillance capsule shipping container and to collect cask design data using a 10-ton weight full scale model at Kobe Shipyard and Engine Works. This report presents the outline of these tests. The B Type container was a cylinder 3289 mm long, 1080 mm in diameter and designed in accordance with the new modified Japanese regulations similar to IAEA regulation. These tests consist of four 9 m drop tests, two 1 m puncture tests, a fire test and an immersion test. In conclusion, safetyness of this container has been proved and various technical data for cask design were also collected through these tests. (author)

  18. Applications of CR-39 solid state nuclear track detector to ion beam diagnosis

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Kanasaki, Masato; Hattori, Atsuto; Oda, Keiji; Yamauchi, Tomoya; Fukuda, Yuji; Sakaki, Hironao; Nishiuchi, Mamiko; Kondo, Kiminori; Kurashima, Satoshi; Kamiya, Tomihiro

    2012-01-01

    CR-39 solid state nuclear track detector, which was developed for optical lens, has been applied for various field such as radon surveys, measurement of galactic cosmic ray, cell irradiation experiment and so on. The CR-39 detectors have the great advantages of being insensitive to high energy photons and electrons and capable of detecting only ions in the mixed fields such as laser driven relativistic plasmas. Though there are some analytical methods of CR-39 to diagnose ion beam, unfortunately, only few researchers in the field of plasma know the methods. This article looks at how to use CR-39 detectors and introduce the accomplishment of the joint study JAEA and Kobe Univ. for application of CR-39 detectors to ion beam diagnosis. (author)

  19. Association of social support with gratitude and sense of coherence in Japanese young women: a cross-sectional study

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Fujitani T

    2017-06-01

    Full Text Available Tomoko Fujitani,1 Kumiko Ohara,1 Katsuyasu Kouda,2 Tomoki Mase,3 Chiemi Miyawaki,4,5 Katsumasa Momoi,1,6 Yoshimitsu Okita,7 Maki Furutani,1 Harunobu Nakamura1 1Graduate School of Human Development and Environment, Kobe University, Kobe, 2Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Kindai University, Osaka-Sayama, 3Faculty of Human Development and Education, Kyoto Women’s University, 4Department of Early Childhood Education, Heian Jogakuin College, Kyoto, 5Kagoshima University Research Field in Education, Education, Law, Economics and the Humanities Area, Kagoshima, 6Faculty of Health and Welfare, Tokushima Bunri University, Tokushima, 7Graduate School of Integrated Science and Technology, College of Engineering, Academic Institute, Shizuoka University, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, Japan Purpose: Recent studies have shown that perceived social support is associated with gratitude and sense of coherence, but evidence for this concept remains scarce. In the present study, we investigated relationships between social support, gratitude, and sense of coherence, focusing on the construct of and source of social support among young women. Methods: The study was conducted in 2014 in Japan. Participants comprised 208 female university students (aged 19.9 ± 1.1 years, who completed a self-administered anonymous questionnaire regarding perceived social support, gratitude, and sense of coherence. Results: Emotional and instrumental social support from acquaintances were found to be lower than those from family and friends. Gratitude was positively correlated with all forms of social support except instrumental social support from acquaintances. However, sense of coherence was positively correlated with both emotional and instrumental social support from family and only emotional social support from acquaintances. Multiple regression analysis showed that ­emotional support from family and emotional support from acquaintances were positively associated

  20. R and D on new energy technologies. Outlines of fiscal 1976 research results; Shin energy gijutsu kenkyu kaihatsu 1976 nendo kenkyu seika no gaiyo. Kenkyu kaihatsuhi kamihanki

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1976-07-01

    This report outlines the results of (1) 8 researches on solar energy technology, (2) 4 researches on hydrogen energy, and (3) 4 general researches. (1) includes the prototype measuring instrument of near IR solar direct radiation using an interference filter to measure solar spectral irradiance, the prototype small-scale solar heat power model system, selective absorption and transmission films as solar heat power generation materials, InP solar cell and new solar cell system configuration, micro-wave power transmission of solar energy, and the expansion turbine using low-boiling point coolant for space power generation. (2) includes the hydrogen energy system, high-temperature thermolysis of water at 1,000 degrees C, prototype zirconia single-crystals for new solid electrolyte fuel cells, and the large-capacity high- temperature solid electrolyte fuel cell power system. (3) includes the total new energy system, the prototype superconducting magnet for energy storage, study on mechanism of an anomalous absorption effect by irradiation of strong laser beam onto high-temperature high-density ionized gas, and low-temperature difference power generation in the ocean. (NEDO)

  1. Fisher in Adelaide.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Mayo, Oliver

    2014-06-01

    R. A. Fisher spent much of his final 3 years of life in Adelaide. It was a congenial place to live and work, and he was much in demand as a speaker, in Australia and overseas. It was, however, a difficult time for him because of the sustained criticism of fiducial inference from the early 1950s onwards. The article discusses some of Fisher's work on inference from an Adelaide perspective. It also considers some of the successes arising from this time, in the statistics of field experimentation and in evolutionary genetics. A few personal recollections of Fisher as houseguest are provided. This article is the text of a article presented on August 31, 2012 at the 26th International Biometric Conference, Kobe, Japan. © 2014, The International Biometric Society.

  2. Are any public-reported earthquake precursors valid?

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    N. E. Whitehead

    2004-01-01

    Full Text Available This article examines retrospective public-supplied precursor reports statistically, and confirms published hypotheses that some alleged precursors within 100km and within a day prior to the large 1995 Kobe and 1999 Izmit earthquakes, may be valid. The confirmations are mostly at the p<0.001 level of significance. Most significant were alleged meteorological and geophysical precursors, and less often, animal reports. The chi-squared test used, for the first time eliminates the distorting effects of psychological factors on the reports. However it also shows that correct reports are diluted with about the same number which are merely wishful thinking, and obtaining more reliable data would be logistically difficult. Some support is found for another published hypothesis in which other precursors occurred within the ten days prior to the earthquake.

  3. Earthquake lights and rupture processes

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    T. V. Losseva

    2005-01-01

    Full Text Available A physical model of earthquake lights is proposed. It is suggested that the magnetic diffusion from the electric and magnetic fields source region is a dominant process, explaining rather high localization of the light flashes. A 3D numerical code allowing to take into account the arbitrary distribution of currents caused by ground motion, conductivity in the ground and at its surface, including the existence of sea water above the epicenter or (and near the ruptured segments of the fault have been developed. Simulations for the 1995 Kobe earthquake were conducted taking into account the existence of sea water with realistic geometry of shores. The results do not contradict the eyewitness reports and scarce measurements of the electric and magnetic fields at large distances from the epicenter.

  4. Development of fuel assembly seismic analysis against vertical and horizontal earthquake

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Sato, T.; Akitake, J.; Kobayashi, H. [Nuclear Development Corporation, Ibaraki (Japan); Azumi, S. [Kansai Electric Power co., inc., Osaka (Japan); Koike, H.; Takeda, N.; Suzuki, S. [Kobe Shipyard and Machinery Works, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, LTD., Kobe (Japan)

    2001-07-01

    Vertical vibration with large acceleration was observed in KOBE earthquake in 1995. Concerning PWR fuel assembly, though the vertical response has been calculated by a static analysis, it had better be calculated by a dynamic analysis in detail. Furthermore, mutual effects between horizontal and vertical motions attract our attention. For these reasons, a dynamic analysis method in the vertical direction was developed and linked with the previously developed method in the horizontal direction. This is the method that takes effect of vertical vibration into the horizontal vibration analysis as the change of horizontal stiffness, which is brought by axial compressive force. In this paper, fundamental test results for developing the method are introduced and summary of the advanced method's procedure and analysis results are also described. (authors)

  5. Substitution of Formal and Informal Home Care Service Use and Nursing Home Service Use: Health Outcomes, Decision-Making Preferences, and Implications for a Public Health Policy.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Chen, Chia-Ching; Yamada, Tetsuji; Nakashima, Taeko; Chiu, I-Ming

    2017-01-01

    The purposes of this study are: (1) to empirically identify decision-making preferences of long-term health-care use, especially informal and formal home care (FHC) service use; (2) to evaluate outcomes vs. costs based on substitutability of informal and FHC service use; and (3) to investigate health outcome disparity based on substitutability. The methods of ordinary least squares, a logit model, and a bivariate probit model are used by controlling for socioeconomic, demographic, and physical/mental health factors to investigate outcomes and costs based substitutability of informal and formal health-care use. The data come from the 2013 Japanese Study of Aging and Retirement (JSTAR), which is designed by Keizai-Sangyo Kenkyu-jo, Hitotsubashi University, and the University of Tokyo. The JSTAR is a globally comparable data survey of the elderly. There exists a complement relationship between the informal home care (IHC) and community-based FHC services, and the elasticity's ranges from 0.18 to 0.22. These are reasonable results, which show that unobservable factors are positively related to IHC and community-based FHC, but negatively related to nursing home (NH) services based on our bivariate probit model. Regarding health-care outcome efficiency issue, the IHC is the best one among three types of elderly care: IHC, community-based FHC, and NH services. Health improvement/outcome of elderly with the IHC is heavier concentrated on IHC services than the elderly care services by community-based FHC and NH care services. Policy makers need to address a diversity of health outcomes and efficiency of services based on providing services to elderly through resource allocation to the different types of long-term care. A provision of partial or full compensation for elderly care at home is recommendable and a viable option to improve their quality of lives.

  6. Substitution of Formal and Informal Home Care Service Use and Nursing Home Service Use: Health Outcomes, Decision-Making Preferences, and Implications for a Public Health Policy

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Chia-Ching Chen

    2017-11-01

    Full Text Available ObjectivesThe purposes of this study are: (1 to empirically identify decision-making preferences of long-term health-care use, especially informal and formal home care (FHC service use; (2 to evaluate outcomes vs. costs based on substitutability of informal and FHC service use; and (3 to investigate health outcome disparity based on substitutability.Methodology and dataThe methods of ordinary least squares, a logit model, and a bivariate probit model are used by controlling for socioeconomic, demographic, and physical/mental health factors to investigate outcomes and costs based substitutability of informal and formal health-care use. The data come from the 2013 Japanese Study of Aging and Retirement (JSTAR, which is designed by Keizai-Sangyo Kenkyu-jo, Hitotsubashi University, and the University of Tokyo. The JSTAR is a globally comparable data survey of the elderly.ResultsThere exists a complement relationship between the informal home care (IHC and community-based FHC services, and the elasticity’s ranges from 0.18 to 0.22. These are reasonable results, which show that unobservable factors are positively related to IHC and community-based FHC, but negatively related to nursing home (NH services based on our bivariate probit model. Regarding health-care outcome efficiency issue, the IHC is the best one among three types of elderly care: IHC, community-based FHC, and NH services. Health improvement/outcome of elderly with the IHC is heavier concentrated on IHC services than the elderly care services by community-based FHC and NH care services.ConclusionPolicy makers need to address a diversity of health outcomes and efficiency of services based on providing services to elderly through resource allocation to the different types of long-term care. A provision of partial or full compensation for elderly care at home is recommendable and a viable option to improve their quality of lives.

  7. People's response to the promotion of the effective use of nuclear power plants. From the viewpoint of favoring providing information about maintenance activities

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Sakai, Yukimi; Ueda, Yoshitaka; Goto, Manabu

    2010-01-01

    In order to elucidate people's response to the promotion of the effective use of nuclear power plants by high-reliability maintenance, we conducted a questionnaire survey targeting 306 respondents living in the cities of Kyoto, Osaka and Kobe. The questionnaire comprises information about maintenance contents and regulatory system concerning extension of plant operation cycle, long life operation, and plant power-up, not as a measure for safety but a measure for promoting effective use of power plants. It was found that a high number of respondents held a positive attitude towards the promotion of the effective use of plants, even if they tend to be anxious about safety problems. Moreover, the study suggests that no enhance the feeling of safety, information about maintenance activities and regulatory system was more effective than information about actual technical possibility. (author)

  8. VLF/LF Radio Sounding of Ionospheric Perturbations Associated with Earthquakes

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Masashi Hayakawa

    2007-07-01

    Full Text Available It is recently recognized that the ionosphere is very sensitive to seismic effects,and the detection of ionospheric perturbations associated with earthquakes, seems to bevery promising for short-term earthquake prediction. We have proposed a possible use ofVLF/LF (very low frequency (3-30 kHz /low frequency (30-300 kHz radio sounding ofthe seismo-ionospheric perturbations. A brief history of the use of subionospheric VLF/LFpropagation for the short-term earthquake prediction is given, followed by a significantfinding of ionospheric perturbation for the Kobe earthquake in 1995. After showingprevious VLF/LF results, we present the latest VLF/LF findings; One is the statisticalcorrelation of the ionospheric perturbation with earthquakes and the second is a case studyfor the Sumatra earthquake in December, 2004, indicating the spatical scale and dynamicsof ionospheric perturbation for this earthquake.

  9. Measurements of gamma (γ)-emitting radionuclides with a high-purity germanium detector: the methods and reliability of our environmental assessments on the Fukushima 1 Nuclear Power Plant accident.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Mimura, Tetsuro; Mimura, Mari; Komiyama, Chiyo; Miyamoto, Masaaki; Kitamura, Akira

    2014-01-01

    The severe accident of Fukushima 1 Nuclear Power Plant due to the Tohoku Region Pacific Coast Earthquake in 11 March 2011 caused wide contamination and pollution by radionuclides in Fukushima and surrounding prefectures. In the current JPR symposium, a group of plant scientists attempted to examine the impact of the radioactive contamination on wild and cultivated plants. Measurements of gamma (γ) radiation from radionuclides in "Fukushima samples", which we called and collected from natural and agricultural areas in Fukushima prefecture were mostly done with a high-purity Ge detector in the Graduate School of Maritime Sciences, Kobe University. In this technical note, we describe the methods of sample preparation and measurements of radioactivity of the samples and discuss the reliability of our data in regards to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Interlaboratory comparisons and proficiency test (IAEA proficiency test).

  10. Reviews on the Japanese Patent Applications Regarding Nickel/Metal Hydride Batteries

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Taihei Ouchi

    2016-06-01

    Full Text Available The Japanese Patent Applications filed on the topic of nickel/metal hydride (Ni/MH batteries have been reviewed. Patent applications filed by the top nine battery manufacturers (Matsushita, Sanyo, Hitachi Maxell, Yuasa, Toshiba, FDK, Furukawa, Japan Storage, and Shin-kobe, five component suppliers (Tanaka, Mitsui, Santoku, Japan Metals & Chemicals Co. (JMC, and Shin-Etsu, and three research institutes (Industrial Research Institute (ISI, Agency of Industrial Science and Technology (AIST, and Toyota R & D were chosen as the main subjects for this review, based on their production volume and contribution to the field. By reviewing these patent applications, we can have a clear picture of the technology development in the Japanese battery industry. These patent applications also provide insights, know-how, and future directions for engineers and scientists working in the rechargeable battery field.

  11. HOMA-IR Values are Associated With Glycemic Control in Japanese Subjects Without Diabetes or Obesity: The KOBE Study.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Hirata, Takumi; Higashiyama, Aya; Kubota, Yoshimi; Nishimura, Kunihiro; Sugiyama, Daisuke; Kadota, Aya; Nishida, Yoko; Imano, Hironori; Nishikawa, Tomofumi; Miyamatsu, Naomi; Miyamoto, Yoshihiro; Okamura, Tomonori

    2015-01-01

    Several studies have reported that insulin resistance was a major risk factor for the onset of type 2 diabetes mellitus in individuals without diabetes or obesity. We aimed to clarify the association between insulin resistance and glycemic control in Japanese subjects without diabetes or obesity. We conducted a community-based cross-sectional study including 1083 healthy subjects (323 men and 760 women) in an urban area. We performed multivariate regression analyses to estimate the association between the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) values and markers of glycemic control, including glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), 1,5-anhydroglucitol (1,5-AG), and fasting plasma glucose (FPG) levels, after adjustment for potential confounders. Compared with the lowest tertile of HOMA-IR values, the highest tertile was significantly associated with HbA1c and FPG levels after adjustment for potential confounders, both in men (HbA1c: β = 1.83, P = 0.001; FPG: β = 0.49, P HOMA-IR values was inversely associated with 1,5-AG levels compared with the lowest tertile (β = -18.42, P = 0.009) only in men. HOMA-IR values were associated with markers of glycemic control in Japanese subjects without diabetes or obesity. Insulin resistance may influence glycemic control even in a lean, non-diabetic Asian population.

  12. Next Generation Metallic Iron Nodule Technology in Electric Arc Steelmaking - Phase II

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Donald R. Fosnacht; Iwao Iwasaki; Richard F. Kiesel; David J. Englund; David W. Hendrickson; Rodney L. Bleifuss

    2010-12-22

    The current trend in the steel industry is a gradual decline in conventional steelmaking from taconite pellets in blast furnaces, and an increasing number of alternative processes using metallic scrap iron, pig iron and metallized iron ore products. Currently, iron ores from Minnesota and Michigan are pelletized and shipped to the lower Great Lakes ports as blast furnace feed. The existing transportation system and infrastructure is geared to handling these bulk materials. In order to expand the opportunities for the existing iron ore mines beyond their blast furnace customer base, a new material is needed to satisfy the needs of the emerging steel industry while utilizing the existing infrastructure and materials handling. A recent commercial installation employing Kobe Steel’s ITmk3 process, was installed in Northeastern Minnesota. The basic process uses a moving hearth furnace to directly reduce iron oxides to metallic iron from a mixture of iron ore, coals and additives. The resulting products can be shipped using the existing infrastructure for use in various steelmaking processes. The technology reportedly saves energy by 30% over the current integrated steelmaking process and reduces emissions by more than 40%. A similar large-scale pilot plant campaign is also currently in progress using JFE Steel’s Hi-QIP process in Japan. The objective of this proposal is to build upon and improve the technology demonstrated by Kobe Steel and JFE, by further reducing cost, improving quality and creating added incentive for commercial development. This project expands previous research conducted at the University of Minnesota Duluth’s Natural Resources Research Institute and that reported by Kobe and JFE Steel. Three major issues have been identified and are addressed in this project for producing high-quality nodular reduced iron (NRI) at low cost: (1) reduce the processing temperature, (2) control the furnace gas atmosphere over the NRI, and (3) effectively use sub

  13. Response of eyes with age-related macular degeneration to anti-VEGF drugs and implications for therapy planning

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Miyamoto N

    2017-04-01

    Full Text Available Noriko Miyamoto,1,2 Michiko Mandai,1,3 Hiroshi Kojima,1,2 Takanori Kameda,1,2 Masataka Shimozono,1,2 Akihiro Nishida,1,2 Yasuo Kurimoto1,2 1Department of Ophthalmology, Kobe City Medical Center General Hospital, 2Department of Ophthalmology, Institute of Biomedical Research and Innovation, 3Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology, Kobe, Japan Purpose: To evaluate the response to and dependence on aflibercept or ranibizumab in patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD.Methods: We retrospectively reviewed AMD patients who received induction therapy with aflibercept or ranibizumab for the following parameters: whether complete resolution of the retinal fluid (“good response” was achieved and whether recurrence was observed within 3 months (“dependent” after the induction treatment. With aflibercept treatment, treatment-naïve eyes with a good response/non-dependence were recommended a pro re nata regimen, and other eyes were recommended a proactive bimonthly regimen, followed by monitoring of visual acuity (VA for 12 months. The measured values of the groups were compared using one-way analysis of variance with Tukey’s test to evaluate the difference between baseline and postinjection VA.Results: Among the treatment-naïve eyes, 76% had a good response to aflibercept and 37% of these were aflibercept-dependent, while 58% had a good response to ranibizumab but 51% of these were ranibizumab-dependent. Among the eyes that converted from ranibizumab treatment, 92% of the good responders to ranibizumab with dependence and 76% of the poor responders on ranibizumab had a good response to aflibercept. With aflibercept treatment, the mean VA of treatment-naïve patients was significantly better than the baseline VA over 12 months (P<0.001, and the VA of the converted group improved significantly with proactive treatment and the improvement was continuously maintained from 6 to 12 months

  14. Five-year outcomes of pars plana vitrectomy for macular edema associated with branch retinal vein occlusion

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Nishida A

    2017-02-01

    Full Text Available Akihiro Nishida,1,2 Hiroshi Kojima,1,2 Takanori Kameda,1,2 Michiko Mandai,1,3 Yasuo Kurimoto1,2 1Department of Ophthalmology, Kobe City Medical Center General Hospital, 2Department of Ophthalmology, Institute of Biomedical Research and Innovation, 3Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration, RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo, Japan Purpose: Long-term outcomes of pars plana vitrectomy (PPV for macular edema (ME associated with branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO have been previously reported, but the studies did not report the number of additional treatments after surgery. During 5 years of follow-up, we therefore investigated the efficacy and safety of PPV for BRVO and evaluated the incidence of additional treatments. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 25 eyes of 24 patients who underwent PPV for ME associated with BRVO and were followed up for at least 5 years. Best-corrected visual acuity was measured, and foveal thickness was assessed by optical coherence tomography. Additional treatments were also investigated. Results: The logarithm of the minimal angle of resolution (logMAR improved from 0.53±0.23 at baseline to 0.16±0.25 at 5 years (P<0.0001. The foveal thickness decreased from 535±222 µm at baseline to 205±143 µm at 5 years (P<0.0001. For the eyes with residual ME, the following additional treatments were performed within 5 years of follow-up: sub-Tenon injection of triamcinolone acetonide in two eyes, intravitreal injection of bevacizumab in three eyes, grid laser photocoagulation in one eye, and direct photocoagulation of macroaneurysm in one eye. Additional surgeries were performed in two eyes: for one eye, phacoemulsification extraction of the ocular lens and intraocular lens implantation were performed because of cataract progression, and for the other eye, additional PPV was done for postoperative retinal detachment. Conclusion: PPV was effective for resolution of ME

  15. Use of a semiquantitative procalcitonin kit for evaluating severity and predicting mortality in patients with sepsis

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Kenzaka T

    2012-05-01

    Full Text Available Tsuneaki Kenzaka,1 Masanobu Okayama,2 Shigehiro Kuroki,1 Miho Fukui,3 Shinsuke Yahata,3 Hiroki Hayashi,3 Akihito Kitao,3 Eiji Kajii,2 Masayoshi Hashimoto41Division of General Medicine, 2Division of Community and Family Medicine, Center for Community Medicine, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, Shimotsuke; 3Department of General Medicine, Toyooka Public Hospital, Toyooka; 4Department of Family and Community Medicine, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, JapanBackground: The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical usefulness of a semiquantitative procalcitonin kit for assessing severity of sepsis and early determination of mortality in affected patients.Methods: This was a prospective, observational study including 206 septic patients enrolled between June 2008 and August 2009. Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC, Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA, Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE II scores were measured, along with semiquantitative procalcitonin concentrations. Patients were divided into three groups based on their semiquantitative procalcitonin concentrations (group A, <2 ng/mL; group B ≥ 2 ng/mL < 10 ng/mL; group C ≥ 10 ng/mL.Results: A significant difference in DIC, SOFA, and APACHE II scores was found between group A and group C and between group B and group C (P < 0.01. Patients with severe sepsis and septic shock had significantly higher procalcitonin concentrations than did patients with less severe disease. The rate of patients with septic shock with high procalcitonin concentrations showed an upward trend. There was a significant (P < 0.01 difference between the three groups with regard to numbers of patients and rates of severe sepsis, septic shock, DIC, and mortality.Conclusion: Semiquantitative procalcitonin concentration testing can be helpful for early assessment of disease severity in patients with sepsis. Furthermore, it may also help in predicting early

  16. Echo intensity obtained from ultrasonography images reflecting muscle strength in elderly men

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Watanabe Y

    2013-07-01

    Full Text Available Yuya Watanabe,1 Yosuke Yamada,1,2 Yoshihiro Fukumoto,3 Tatsuro Ishihara,4 Keiichi Yokoyama,1 Tsukasa Yoshida,1 Motoko Miyake,1 Emi Yamagata,5 Misaka Kimura1 1Laboratory of Sports and Health Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan; 2Research Fellow, Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, Tokyo, Japan; 3Faculty of Rehabilitation, Kobe Gakuin University, Kobe, Japan; 4Faculty of Health and Sports Science, Doshisha University, Kyoto, Japan; 5Laboratory of Gerontological Nursing, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan Background: It is well known that loss of muscle mass (quantitative change is a major change that occurs with aging. Qualitative changes in skeletal muscle, such as increased intramuscular fat, also occur as one ages. Enhanced echo intensity (EI on ultrasonography images of skeletal muscle is believed to reflect muscle quality. Recent studies evaluating the quality of skeletal muscle using computer-aided gray scale analysis showed that EI is associated with muscle strength independently of age or muscle size in middle-aged and elderly women. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether muscle quality based on EI is associated with muscle strength independently of muscle size for elderly men. Methods: A total of 184 elderly men (65–91 years living independently in Kyoto, Japan, participated in this study. The EI, muscle thickness (MT, and subcutaneous fat thickness (FT of the anterior compartment of the right thigh were determined by assessing ultrasonography images. The maximum isometric torque of knee extension at a knee angle of 90° was measured. Results: The EI showed a significant negative correlation with muscle strength (r = -0.333, P < 0.001. Multivariate regression analysis revealed that the MT and EI of the knee extensor muscle were independently associated with maximum isometric knee extension strength. Even when partial correlation analysis was performed with age

  17. Kongre İzlenimleri

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Faruk Aşıcıoğlu

    1998-12-01

    Full Text Available 6th Indo Pasific Congress on Legal Medicine and Forensic Sciences 26-30 Temmuz 1998 Kobe Üniversitesinin ev sahipliğini yaptığı ve denizden doldurularak oluşturulan şehir merkezi ile bağlantılı yapay bir ada üzerinde bulunan Kobe Uluslararası Konferans Merkezinde yapılan kongreye 30 ayrı ülkeden yaklaşık 300 kişi katıldı. 7 ayrı salonda yürütülen Kongre Bilimsel programı çerçevesinde 4 konferans, 3 sempozyum, 110 sözlü bildiri, 185 poster sunumu yapıldı. Poster sunumları başında 6 dakikalık sözlü sunum ve 2 dakikalık tartışma süresiyle kısıtlandırılmış olmasına rağmen oturum başkanları bu sürelerin aşılmasına hoşgörüyle yaklaştı. Türkiye’den Prof.Dr.Sevil Atasoy’un 2 sözlü bildiri, 2 poster sunumu, Dr.Faruk Aşıcıoğlu’nun 3 poster sunumu ile katıldığı kongrede, 2 poster oturumu Türk katılımcıların başkanlığında yapıldı. Hyogo Polis Bandosu’nun konseri geleneksel davul gösterisi, çay seramonisi, çiçek düzenleme ve Takarazuka Revüsünün gösterileri katılımcılara geleneksel Japon kültürünü tanıma fırsatı verdi. INPALMS genel kurulunun da yapıldığı kongrede uzun yıllar birliğin başkanlığını yapan Prof.Dr. MS Laksman Salgada (Sri Lanka yerini Prof.Dr. Yoshitsugu Tatsunc’a (Japonya devretti. Dr.Faruk Aşıcıoğlu

  18. La restauración de la Casa Yamamura de Frank Lloyd Wright

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Hidekazu Nishizawa

    2004-12-01

    Full Text Available La Casa Yamamura, proyectada por el arquitecto en 1918 para un solar ubicado en Ashiya (Hyogo, se aleja en su diseño del resto de su obra japonesa para acercarse a las características de su etapa californiana. Su singularidad se reflejó en su declaración como Bien de Interés Cultural en 1974, como primer edificio de la era Taisho (1912-1926 que recibía tal distinción. A principios de los años ochenta, la casa, en estado de desidia, fue objeto de estudio y restauración. Posteriormente, el terremoto de Kobe de 1995 afectó seriamente al edificio, de manera que se debió emprender una nueva restauración que constituye el contenido principal de este artículo.

  19. Classification of cyclic initial states and geometric phase for the spin-j system

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Skrynnikov, N.R.; Zhou, J.; Sanctuary, B.C. [Dept. of Chem., McGill Univ., Montreal, PQ (Canada)

    1994-09-21

    Quantum states which evolve cyclically in their projective Hilbert space give rise to a geometric (or Aharonov-Anandan) phase. An aspect of primary interest is stable cyclic behaviour as realized under a periodic Hamiltonian. The problem has been handled by use of time-dependent transformations treated along the lines of Floquet's theory as well as in terms of exponential operators with a goal to examine the variety of initial states exhibiting cyclic behaviour. A particular case of special cyclic initial states is described which is shown to be important for nuclear magnetic resonance experiments aimed at the study of the effects of the geometric phase. An example of arbitrary spin j in a precessing magnetic field and spin j=1 subject to both axially symmetric quadrupolar interaction and a precessing magnetic field are presented. The invariant (Kobe's) geometric phase is calculated for special cyclic states. (author)

  20. A biography and bibliography: the recent trends in bioethics and medical genetics in Japan (Part I).

    Science.gov (United States)

    Fujiki, N

    2000-01-01

    1. Introduction. 2. History of Bioethics in Japan. 3. First international bioethics seminar in Fukui on human dignity and medicine (1987). 4. Second international bioethics seminar in Fukui--international association of human biologists--japan society of human genetics joint symposium on medical genetics and society (1990). 5. Third international bioethics seminar in Fukui on human genome research and society (1992). 6. Fourth international bioethics seminar in Fukui on intractable neurological disorders, human genome research and society (1993). 7. Fifth international bioethics seminar in Fukui on the MURS japan/IBC UNESCO joint seminar on the protection of the human genome and scientific responsibility (1995). 8. Sixth international bioethics seminar in Fukui--UNESCO Asian bioethics conference- and who assisted satellite symposium on medical genetics services and bioethics, in Kobe and Fukui (1997). 9. Coming seventh international bioethics seminar in Fukui on pharmaco-genomics and DNA polymorphism (2000). 10. Conclusion.

  1. International Conference on Social Modeling and Simulation, plus Econophysics Colloquium 2014

    CERN Document Server

    Ito, Nobuyasu; Noda, Itsuki; Takayasu, Misako

    2015-01-01

    The proceedings of the international conference “SMSEC2014”, a joint conference of the first “Social Modeling and Simulations” and the 10th “Econophysics Colloquium”, held in Kobe in November 2014 with 174 participants, are gathered herein. Cutting edge scientific researches on various social phenomena are reviewed. New methods for analysis of big data such as financial markets, automobile traffics, epidemic spreading, world-trades and social media communications are provided to clarify complex interaction and distributions underlying in these social phenomena. Robustness and fragility of social systems are discussed based on agent models and complex network models. Techniques about high performance computers are introduced for simulation of complicated social phenomena. Readers will feel the researchers minds that deep and quantitative understanding will make it possible to realize comprehensive simulations of our whole society in the near future, which will contribute to wide fields of industry ...

  2. 76 FR 57041 - Kobe Brown and Gregory W. Pearson, dba DERMAPPS; Analysis of Proposed Consent Order To Aid Public...

    Science.gov (United States)

    2011-09-15

    ... application (``app'') called AcneApp which respondents developed and sold in Apple's iTunes Store. Respondents... the order, to pay the Commission $14,294. The remaining parts of the proposed order are standard...

  3. Summary of research achievements in fiscal 1980 in research and development of new energy technologies (Research and development expense); Shin energy gijutsu kenkyu kaihatsu 1980 nendo kenkyu seika no gaiyo. Kenkyu kaihatsuhi

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1980-07-01

    This paper describes the achievements in fiscal 1980 of new energy research at the General Research Institute of Electronics Technologies using the NEDO's development expense. To optimize the heat and electric power composite solar system, analyses were performed on heat production, devices and materials, and economy of the whole experimental facilities of the original model. Fundamental researches are being made on crystalline silicon, thin amorphous film and compound semiconductor solar cells. The solar thermionic generation element producing equipment installed in the previous fiscal year has produced and tested different types of electrodes, and operated the modules for an extended period of time. Measurement data of solar beam in ultraviolet, visible and near infrared zones were processed statistically, whereas the research work has been completed in the current fiscal year, having established successfully the reference solar radiation. In the hydrogen manufacturing technology using high-temperature direct pyrolysis, fundamental discussions were given on effects of electric and magnetic fields on dissociation of steam, and diffusion and separation of hydrogen by using permeation membranes. For hydrogen fuel cells, trial fabrication and tests were continued on single cells by using mainly the high frequency sputtering process. Experiments were continued on a solid electrolyte fuel cell system. Researches are under way as comprehensive study on such technological seeds as power generation using ocean temperature difference, and superconduction magnets for energy storage (NEDO)

  4. A study on people's awareness about the restarting and decommissioning of nuclear power plants

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Goto, Manabu; Sakai, Yukimi

    2015-01-01

    In this study, we conducted two questionnaire surveys targeting a total of 918 respondents living in the cities of Kyoto, Osaka and Kobe, in order to elucidate people's awareness of three things: 1) restart of nuclear power plants; 2) extension of the operation period of aging plants; and 3) decommissioning. The results are as follows: 1) People who think that electrical power companies voluntarily take higher safety measures trust the power companies and do not oppose the restart of the nuclear power plants, as compared to people who think that power companies only meet the requirements set by the nuclear regulatory agency. 2) When people were given information about aging measures and conforming to new regulatory standards, their anxiety toward the operation of aging plants was reduced. 3) People thought that decommissioning work was important for society. However, a small number of people thought it was a job worthwhile doing. (author)

  5. Third International Conference on Batteries for Utility Energy Storage

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1991-03-18

    This is a collection of essays presented at the above-named conference held at Kobe, Japan, from March 18 through 22, 1991. At the utility energy storage session, a power research program plan, operational and economic benefits of BESP (battery energy storage plant), the Moonlight Project, etc., were presented, respectively, by EPRI (Electric Power Research Institute) of the U.S., BEWAG Corporation of Germany, and NEDO (New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization) of Japan, etc. At the improved lead-acid batteries session, the characteristics of improved lead-acid batteries, load levelling and life cycle, problems in BESP, comparisons and tests, etc., were presented by Japan, Italy, the U.S., etc. At the advanced batteries session, presentations were made about the sodium-sulfur battery, zinc-bromine battery, redox battery, etc. Furthermore, there were sessions on consumer energy systems, control and power conditioning technology, and commercialization and economic studies. A total 53 presentations were made. (NEDO)

  6. 5th Conference of the International Federation of Classification Societies

    CERN Document Server

    Yajima, Keiji; Bock, Hans-Hermann; Ohsumi, Noboru; Tanaka, Yutaka; Baba, Yasumasa

    1998-01-01

    This volume, Data Science, Classification, and Related Methods, contains a selection of papers presented at the Fifth Conference of the International Federation of Oassification Societies (IFCS-96), which was held in Kobe, Japan, from March 27 to 30,1996. The volume covers a wide range of topics and perspectives in the growing field of data science, including theoretical and methodological advances in domains relating to data gathering, classification and clustering, exploratory and multivariate data analysis, and knowledge discovery and seeking. It gives a broad view of the state of the art and is intended for those in the scientific community who either develop new data analysis methods or gather data and use search tools for analyzing and interpreting large and complex data sets. Presenting a wide field of applications, this book is of interest not only to data analysts, mathematicians, and statisticians but also to scientists from many areas and disciplines concerned with complex data: medicine, biology, ...

  7. Synthetic strong ground motions for engineering design utilizing empirical Green`s functions

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Hutchings, L.J.; Jarpe, S.P.; Kasameyer, P.W.; Foxall, W.

    1996-04-11

    We present a methodology for developing realistic synthetic strong ground motions for specific sites from specific earthquakes. We analyzed the possible ground motion resulting from a M = 7.25 earthquake that ruptures 82 km of the Hayward fault for a site 1.4 km from the fault in the eastern San Francisco Bay area. We developed a suite of 100 rupture scenarios for the Hayward fault earthquake and computed the corresponding strong ground motion time histories. We synthesized strong ground motion with physics-based solutions of earthquake rupture and applied physical bounds on rupture parameters. By having a suite of rupture scenarios of hazardous earthquakes for a fixed magnitude and identifying the hazard to the site from the statistical distribution of engineering parameters, we introduce a probabilistic component into the deterministic hazard calculation. Engineering parameters of synthesized ground motions agree with those recorded from the 1995 Kobe, Japan and the 1992 Landers, California earthquakes at similar distances and site geologies.

  8. Formal Safety Assessment (FSA for Analysis of Ship Collision Using AIS Data

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Muhammad Badrus Zaman

    2015-03-01

    Full Text Available Currently, Maritime safety is the best issue in the world. International Maritime organization (IMO have recommended FSA methodology to enhance maritime safety. In this paper, the research conducted in the Malacca Strait. Malacca Strait is an area that has a high risk for shipping navigation. Many accidents occur in the area are like collision, fire, grounding and so on. Therefore a study on improving safety in this area is very important. it is to produce an output that can be used to provide input to the master and multiple stakeholders to improve safety on board at the time of sailing. In this study, AIS is used as a data source. Sea condition data collected actual traffic through the Automatic Identification System (AIS equipment installed at Kobe University, Japan, and Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM in Johor, Malaysia. The data is applied to define a method with the help of Geographic Information Systems (GIS.

  9. Further developments in generating type-safe messaging

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Neswold, R.; King, C.; /Fermilab

    2011-11-01

    At ICALEPCS 09, we introduced a source code generator that allows processes to communicate safely using data types native to each host language. In this paper, we discuss further development that has occurred since the conference in Kobe, Japan, including the addition of three more client languages, an optimization in network packet size and the addition of a new protocol data type. The protocol compiler is continuing to prove itself as an easy and robust way to get applications written in different languages hosted on different computer architectures to communicate. We have two active Erlang projects that are using the protocol compiler to access ACNET data at high data rates. We also used the protocol compiler output to deliver ACNET data to an iPhone/iPad application. Since it takes an average of two weeks to support a new language, we're willing to expand the protocol compiler to support new languages that our community uses.

  10. Magnetic and magnetocaloric properties of amorphous Y{sub 3}Fe{sub 5}O{sub 12} compound

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Nóbrega, E.P., E-mail: pilad@cbpf.br; Costa, S.S.; Alvarenga, T.S.T.; Alho, B.P.; Caldas, A.; Ribeiro, P.O.; Sousa, V.S.R de; Oliveira, N.A. de; Ranke, P.J. von

    2017-01-15

    We report a theoretical model formed by two coupled magnetic sublattices of localized spins in the presence of an applied magnetic field to investigate the magnetic characteristics and magnetocaloric properties of amorphous yttrium iron garnet. The magnetic state equation is based on Handrich–Kobe´s theory, where the amorphization is taken into account by introducing fluctuations in the exchange parameters. Experimental results report that Y{sub 3}Fe{sub 5}O{sub 12} presents a structural phase transition from crystalline to amorphous caused by a variation of external pressure. This phase transition on Y{sub 3}Fe{sub 5}O{sub 12} leads to interesting results in the magnetic properties and magnetocaloric quantities. - Highlights: • Study of magnetic and magnetocaloric properties of amorphous Y{sub 3}Fe{sub 5}O{sub 12} compound. • Theoretical model formed by two coupled magnetic sublattices of localized spins in the presence of an applied magnetic field. • The influence of crystalline/amorphous transition on the magnetocaloric effect.

  11. Evaluation of the Pseudostatic Analyses of Earth Dams Using FE Simulation and Observed Earthquake-Induced Deformations: Case Studies of Upper San Fernando and Kitayama Dams

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Tohid Akhlaghi

    2014-01-01

    Full Text Available Evaluation of the accuracy of the pseudostatic approach is governed by the accuracy with which the simple pseudostatic inertial forces represent the complex dynamic inertial forces that actually exist in an earthquake. In this study, the Upper San Fernando and Kitayama earth dams, which have been designed using the pseudostatic approach and damaged during the 1971 San Fernando and 1995 Kobe earthquakes, were investigated and analyzed. The finite element models of the dams were prepared based on the detailed available data and results of in situ and laboratory material tests. Dynamic analyses were conducted to simulate the earthquake-induced deformations of the dams using the computer program Plaxis code. Then the pseudostatic seismic coefficient used in the design and analyses of the dams were compared with the seismic coefficients obtained from dynamic analyses of the simulated model as well as the other available proposed pseudostatic correlations. Based on the comparisons made, the accuracy and reliability of the pseudostatic seismic coefficients are evaluated and discussed.

  12. An experimental study on inelastic behavior for exposed-type steel column bases under three-dimensional loadings

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Choi, Jae Hyouk [Chosun University, Gwangju (Korea, Republic of); Choi, Yeol [Kyungpook National University, Daegu (Korea, Republic of)

    2013-03-15

    Considerable damage occurred to steel structures during the Kobe earthquake in Japan. Numerous exposed-type column bases failed in several consistent patterns caused by brittle base plate fracture, excessive anchor bolt elongation, unexpected early anchor bolt failure, and inferior construction work. An exposed-type column base receives axial force and biaxial bending when receiving an arbitrary multidirectional earthquake motion. Up to now, numerous researchers have examined methods to identify their stiffness and strength, but those studies have heretofore been restricted to in-plane behaviors. Therefore, it is necessary to clarify the inelastic behavior of exposed type steel column bases under biaxial lateral loading and axially compressive-tensile loading, which is a closer simulation of the real seismic excitation. In this study, exposed type steel column bases with different failure types, anchor bolt yielding and base plate yielding, are tested under different loading programs, then moment resisting mechanisms and failure modes are investigated.

  13. Time-scale invariant changes in atmospheric radon concentration and crustal strain prior to a large earthquake

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Y. Kawada

    2007-01-01

    Full Text Available Prior to large earthquakes (e.g. 1995 Kobe earthquake, Japan, an increase in the atmospheric radon concentration is observed, and this increase in the rate follows a power-law of the time-to-earthquake (time-to-failure. This phenomenon corresponds to the increase in the radon migration in crust and the exhalation into atmosphere. An irreversible thermodynamic model including time-scale invariance clarifies that the increases in the pressure of the advecting radon and permeability (hydraulic conductivity in the crustal rocks are caused by the temporal changes in the power-law of the crustal strain (or cumulative Benioff strain, which is associated with damage evolution such as microcracking or changing porosity. As the result, the radon flux and the atmospheric radon concentration can show a temporal power-law increase. The concentration of atmospheric radon can be used as a proxy for the seismic precursory processes associated with crustal dynamics.

  14. Simple estimating method of damages of concrete gravity dam based on linear dynamic analysis

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Sasaki, T.; Kanenawa, K.; Yamaguchi, Y. [Public Works Research Institute, Tsukuba, Ibaraki (Japan). Hydraulic Engineering Research Group

    2004-07-01

    Due to the occurrence of large earthquakes like the Kobe Earthquake in 1995, there is a strong need to verify seismic resistance of dams against much larger earthquake motions than those considered in the present design standard in Japan. Problems exist in using nonlinear analysis to evaluate the safety of dams including: that the influence which the set material properties have on the results of nonlinear analysis is large, and that the results of nonlinear analysis differ greatly according to the damage estimation models or analysis programs. This paper reports the evaluation indices based on a linear dynamic analysis method and the characteristics of the progress of cracks in concrete gravity dams with different shapes using a nonlinear dynamic analysis method. The study concludes that if simple linear dynamic analysis is appropriately conducted to estimate tensile stress at potential locations of initiating cracks, the damage due to cracks would be predicted roughly. 4 refs., 1 tab., 13 figs.

  15. Dynamic Response of AP1000 Nuclear Island Due to Safe Shutdown Earthquake Loading

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Gan Buntara S.

    2017-01-01

    Full Text Available AP1000 is a standard nuclear power plant developed by Westinghouse and its partners by using an advanced passive safety feature. Among the five principle building structures, namely the nuclear island, turbine building, annex building, diesel generator building and radwaste building, the safety of the nuclear island building is the most concerned. This paper investigates the dynamic response of the nuclear island building of the AP1000 plant subjected to safe shutdown earthquake loadings. A finite element model for the building, which is assumed to be built in a hard-rock base, is developed and its dynamic response is computed with the aid of the commercial finite element package ANSYS. The dynamic characteristics, including the natural frequencies, the vibration modes, and the time histories for displacements, velocities, and accelerations of the building are obtained for two typical safe shutdown earthquakes, El Centro and Kobe earthquakes. The dynamic behavior of the building due to the earthquakes and its safety is examined and highlighted.

  16. Japan - From Hiroshima to Fukushima

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Pons, Philippe; Guillain, Robert; Pedroletti, Brice; Bouc, Alain; Vichney, Nicolas; Izraelewicz, Erik; Mesmer, Philippe; Fenoglio, Jerome

    2013-01-01

    This publication proposes a set of articles published by Le Monde and which addressed some important events of the history of the Japanese society since the destruction of Hiroshima by the first atomic bomb until the Fukushima accident. The addressed facts and events are: the destruction of Hiroshima, the surrender of Japan, the end of the peculiar status of the emperor, the strong growth period from the 1950's to the 1980's (the revival of Japanese trusts, industrial pollution in Minamata, the activists of Zengakuren, the Osaka exhibition, Mishima's suicide, nuclear and data processing are defined as national priorities), the lost decades 1990-2010 (a new emperor, the Kobe earthquake, the increasing gap between the society and the political class, life and death in Toyota, demographic decline, etc.). The last articles address the Fukushima accident, and propose some photos and an interview with the Japanese Prime Minister

  17. Why the USA dropped atomic bombs on Japanese cities

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Bernstein, B.

    1997-01-01

    Why did the USA use atomic bombs on Japanese cities? Because, by summer 1945, the earlier morality that said you should not kill non-combatants had been chipped away, then eroded, and ultimately destroyed by World War II. After Hitler's viciousness, after the Japanese rape of Nanjing, after the killings in Manila, after the savagery through Asia, after Dresden, after Hamburg, after Tokyo, Osaka, Kobe, Nagoya - over sixty Japanese cities had been bombed before Hiroshima, Hiroshima was inevitable, easy, comfortable, virtually automatic. The transformation was not the use of bomb, but the bombing of non-combatants - massively, intentionally. There was probably a desire to revenge, as well. In addition, there was an expectation that the bombs used on japan would also intimidate the Soviet Union but that was not crucial. Any nation that had the capacity would have used the bomb in righteousness and comfort, self-conceived dignity, amid popular applause from its electorate people

  18. [A consideration on the import of Chinese crude drugs of general use in the 2nd half of Taisho era (7): especially on the change of import volume and price of rhubarb].

    Science.gov (United States)

    Harima, S; Tanaka, Y

    1991-01-01

    Since most of the crude drug rhubarb was imported in the Taisho era, similarly to the Meiji era, it was possible to refer to the government statistic data by investigating and elucidating the import volume of the same in the treaty ports at that time. Upon examining the import status in the period from the late part of the Taisho era to the early part of Showa era (around 1920 to 1930), the following transitions were observed. 1) In 1923 (Taisho 12), the Kantoh earthquake happened and it attacked Yokohama where the function as main trade port was almost totally destroyed. ... 2) The earthquake happened just at the time when the tariff protectionism was increasingly promoted in every country. ... 3) Since the port of Yokohama, as trade port, was damaged by the earthquake at that time and the government import statistic data were limited to a partial summing-up, our investigation was referred to the statistic data at the ports of Osaka and Kobe. ...

  19. Neutron shielding material

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Nodaka, M.; Iida, T.; Taniuchi, H.; Yosimura, K.; Nagahama, H.

    1993-01-01

    From among the neutron shielding materials of the 'kobesh' series developed by Kobe Steel, Ltd. for transport and storage packagings, silicon rubber base type material has been tested for several items with a view to practical application and official authorization, and in order to determine its adaptability to actual vessels. Silicon rubber base type 'kobesh SR-T01' is a material in which, from among the silicone rubber based neutron shielding materials, the hydrogen content is highest and the boron content is most optimized. Its neutron shielding capability has been already described in the previous report (Taniuchi, 1986). The following tests were carried out to determine suitability for practical application; 1) Long-term thermal stability test 2) Pouring test on an actual-scale model 3) Fire test The experimental results showed that the silicone rubber based neutron shielding material has good neutron shielding capability and high long-term fire resistance, and that it can be applied to the advanced transport packaging. (author)

  20. The meat industry: do we think and behave globally or locally?

    Science.gov (United States)

    Belk, K E; Woerner, D R; Delmore, R J; Tatum, J D; Yang, H; Sofos, J N

    2014-11-01

    For generations, those that produce livestock and meat generally felt that their country or geographical region (i.e., provenance) reflected a basis for product differentiation. This occurs to the extent that geography of production often is considered a "brand." For example, there exists "U.S. Grain-Fed Beef" or "Kobe Black Wagyu" or "Uruguayan Grass-Fed Lamb" or "Danish Pork." However, for most meat trade, industry has evolved beyond this. With the exception perhaps of farms onto which livestock are born, meat company's profits are not generally tied to geographical considerations. Most major companies (e.g., JBS, Marfrig, Tyson, Cargill, Danish Crown, Nippon Meat Packers, etc.) operate in multiple countries and represent to consumers the production of a number of locations. However, there also now exist entrepreneurial options for meat production and "local" sales, albeit at lesser volumes. This discussion explores "global" and "local" meat marketing options. Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

  1. Case of anal fistula with Fournier's gangrene in an obese type 2 diabetes mellitus patient.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Yoshino, Hiroshi; Kawakami, Kyoko; Yoshino, Gen; Sawada, Katsuhiro

    2016-03-01

    A 64-year-old man was admitted to Shin-suma General Hospital, Kobe, Japan, complaining of a 3-day history of scrotal swelling and high fever. He had type 2 diabetes mellitus. On examination, his body temperature had risen to 38.5 °C. Examination of the scrotum showed abnormal enlargement. Laboratory data were as follows: white cell count 35,400/μL and glycated hemoglobin 9.6%. Anal fistula was found in an endorectal ultrasound. Computed tomography scan showed a relatively high density of subcutaneous tissue and elevated air density. Thus, he was diagnosed with Fournier's gangrene. On the fourth hospital day, the patient underwent debridement of gangrenous tissue. Seton surgery was carried out for anal fistula on the 34th hospital day. He responded to the treatment very well. He was discharged on the 33rd postoperative day. Once Fournier's gangrene has been diagnosed, considering the association of anal fistula and perianal abscess is important.

  2. Experiences with a Japanese-American fusion fuel processing hardware project

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Barnes, J.W.; Anderson, J.L.; Bartlit, J.R.; Carlson, R.V.; Konishi, S.; Inoue, M.; Naruse, Y.

    1992-01-01

    This paper reports that the United States Department of Energy (USDOE) and the Japan Atomic Energy Research Institute (JAERI) have installed a full-sale fuel cleanup system (JFCU) for testing at Los Alamos. The JFCU was designed by JAERI and built by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) in Kobe, Japan. Experience gained by Japanese working at Los Alamos facilitated development of a system consistent with Los Alamos operations and standards. US or equivalent Japanese standards were generally used for design resulting in minor problems at electrical interfaces. Frequent written interchanges were essential to project success, as spoken communications can be misunderstood. Differing work styles required detailed pre-planning, separation of responsibilities, and daily scheduling meetings. Safety and operational documentation drafted by JAERI personnel was revised at Los Alamos to assure conformance with USDOE and Los Alamos standards. The project was successful because both Japanese and American participants worked hard to overcome potential problems. These experiences will be valuable in conducting future international fusion projects

  3. Application of non-destructive liner thickness measurement technique for manufacturing and inspection process of zirconium lined cladding tube

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Nakazawa, Norio; Fukuda, Akihiro; Fujii, Noritsugu; Inoue, Koichi

    1986-01-01

    Recently, in order to meet the difference of electric power demand owing to electric power situation, large scale load following operation has become necessary. Therefore, the development of the cladding tubes which withstand power variation has been carried out, as the result, zirconium-lined zircaloy 2 cladding tubes have been developed. In order to reduce the sensitivity to stress corrosion cracking, these zirconium-lined cladding tubes require uniform liner thickness over the whole surface and whole length. Kobe Steel Ltd. developed the nondestructive liner thickness measuring technique based on ultrasonic flaw detection technique and eddy current flaw detection technique. These equipments were applied to the manufacturing and inspection processes of the zirconium-lined cladding tubes, and have demonstrated superiority in the control and assurance of the liner thickness of products. Zirconium-lined cladding tubes, the development of the measuring technique for guaranteeing the uniform liner thickness and the liner thickness control in the manufacturing and inspection processes are described. (Kako, I.)

  4. An experimental study on inelastic behavior for exposed-type steel column bases under three-dimensional loadings

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Choi, Jae Hyouk; Choi, Yeol

    2013-01-01

    Considerable damage occurred to steel structures during the Kobe earthquake in Japan. Numerous exposed-type column bases failed in several consistent patterns caused by brittle base plate fracture, excessive anchor bolt elongation, unexpected early anchor bolt failure, and inferior construction work. An exposed-type column base receives axial force and biaxial bending when receiving an arbitrary multidirectional earthquake motion. Up to now, numerous researchers have examined methods to identify their stiffness and strength, but those studies have heretofore been restricted to in-plane behaviors. Therefore, it is necessary to clarify the inelastic behavior of exposed type steel column bases under biaxial lateral loading and axially compressive-tensile loading, which is a closer simulation of the real seismic excitation. In this study, exposed type steel column bases with different failure types, anchor bolt yielding and base plate yielding, are tested under different loading programs, then moment resisting mechanisms and failure modes are investigated

  5. Fiscal 1999 leading research report. High strain-rate super-plasticity (Leading research); 1999 nendo kosoku chososei kenkyu hokokusho. Sendo kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    2000-03-01

    For solving the global warming problem and constructing the resource recycling society, a demand for highly recyclable light-weight Mg alloys is increasing for energy saving and recycling improvement, in particular, for automobiles and electrical appliances. However, use of Mg materials is limited because its poor workability. This research targets development of the material with a rich recyclability and a rich workability for forming complex shapes, and its working technology. Leading research was made on development of the continuous high-strain rate (more than 10{sup -2}/s) super- plasticity material forming process from raw materials to products of Mg alloys, and establishment of the production technology free from technological barriers. The research result showed that for the recognition of Mg alloy as low- environment load super light-weight industrial material, establishment of the composite resource-saving energy-saving production process including recycling and reusing is necessary at the same time as establishment of the high- strain rate super-plasticity material forming process. (NEDO)

  6. A study of static, kinetic, and dynamic visual acuity in 102 Japanese professional baseball players

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Hoshina K

    2013-03-01

    Full Text Available Kohji Hoshina,1 Yuichi Tagami,2 Osamu Mimura,3 Hiroshi Edagawa,4 Masao Matsubara,5 Teiichi Nakayama6 1Hoshina Eye Clinic, Nishinomiya, Japan; 2Department of Ophthalmology, Kobe Century Memorial Hospital, Kobe, Japan; 3Department of Ophthalmology, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya, Japan; 4Edagawa Eye Clinic, Tokyo, Japan; 5Department of Ophthalmology, Tokyo Women's Medical University Medical Center East, Tokyo, Japan; 6Ritsumeikan University, Kyoto, Japan Background: It seemed that visual functions might have some effects on the performance of baseball players. We measured static, kinetic, and dynamic visual acuity (SVA, KVA, and DVA, respectively of Japanese professional baseball players to ascertain whether there would be any difference in SVA, KVA, and DVA among player groups stratified according to their performance level. Methods: The subjects were 102 male professional baseball players with a mean age of 26 years who were members of a Japanese professional baseball club from 2000 to 2009. They were stratified into three groups according to their performance level: A (players who were on the roster of the top-level team all the time throughout the study period, B (players who were on the roster of the top-level team sometimes but not all the time, and C (players who were never on the roster of the top-level team. They were interviewed for the use of corrective visual aids, and examined for SVA, KVA, and DVA. The measurements of these parameters were compared among groups A, B, and C. We also investigated and analyzed the association of KVA or DVA with player position (pitchers or fielders and with hand dominance for batting. KVA was compared between the pitchers and the fielders because they each require different playing skills. DVA was compared between the right-handed and the left-handed batters. Results: There was no statistically significant difference among groups A, B, and C. There was a statistically significant difference in

  7. Evaluation of atherosclerotic lesions using dextran- and mannan–dextran-coated USPIO: MRI analysis and pathological findings

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Mukaisho K

    2012-05-01

    Full Text Available Keiko Tsuchiya1, Norihisa Nitta1, Akinaga Sonoda1, Ayumi Nitta-Seko1, Shinichi Ohta1, Masashi Takahashi1, Kiyoshi Murata1, Kenichi Mukaisho2, Masashi Shiomi3, Yasuhiko Tabata4, Satoshi Nohara51Department of Radiology, 2Department of Pathology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Shiga, 3Institute for Experimental Animals, Kobe University School of Medicine, Kobe, Hyogo, 4Department of Biomaterials, Institute for Frontier Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, 5Nagoya Research Laboratory, Meito Sangyo, Kiyosu, Aichi, JapanAbstract: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI can detect atherosclerotic lesions containing accumulations of ultrasmall superparamagnetic iron oxides (USPIO. Positing that improved USPIO with a higher affinity for atherosclerotic plaques would yield better plaque images, we performed MRI and histologic studies to compare the uptake of dextran- and mannan–dextran-coated USPIO (D-USPIO and DM-USPIO, respectively by the atherosclerotic walls of rabbits. We intravenously injected atherosclerotic rabbits with DM-USPIO (n = 5 or D-USPIO (n = 5. Two rabbits were the controls. The doses delivered were 0.08 (dose 1 (n = 1, 0.4 (dose 2 (n = 1, or 0.8 (dose 3 (n = 3 mmol iron/Kg. The dose 3 rabbits underwent in vivo contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance angiography (MRA before and 5 days after USPIO administration. Afterwards, all animals were euthanized, the aortae were removed and subjected to in vitro MRI study. The signal-to-noise ratio (SNR of the aortic wall in the same region of interest (ROI was calculated in both in vivo and in vitro studies. Histological assessment through measurement of iron-positive regions in Prussian blue-stained specimens showed that iron-positive regions were significantly larger in rabbits injected with DM- rather than D-USPIO (P < 0.05 for all doses. In vivo MRA showed that the SNR-reducing effect of DM- was greater than that of D-USPIO (P < 0.05. With in vitro MRI scans, SNR was significantly

  8. Microbial EOR technology; Biseibutsu EOR gijutsu no kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Taguchi, M.; Yonebayashi, E. [Tech. Research Center, Japan National Oil Corp., Tokyo (Japan)

    1995-11-10

    This paper describes attempts of establishing an oil recovery technology utilizing microorganisms and of aiming at improving the practicability of that technology. Fiscal 1994 has investigated effects of inorganic salts existing in reservoir beds and NaCl concentrations on proliferation of microorganisms and production of metabolites. The investigation was intended to discuss applicability of microorganisms to environments that are brought closer to actual field conditions. Furthermore, a core sweeping test using sandstone was carried out on the fiscal 1992 separated bacteria, the 4118 bacteria, that has high surfactant production capability. In addition, a sand pack was used to perform a flooding experiment under conditions of 50{degree}C and 50 KSC to evaluate functionality of microorganisms when environments in the reservoir bed are simulated with respect to pressures and temperatures. An oil recovering experiment was carried out using a sandstone with a diameter of 1.5 inches, a length of 1.0 foot and permeability of 600 md, and using Bacillus subtilis 4118 bacteria which attained the lowest interfacial tension among the bacteria examined. A recovery rate of 4.4% Sor was derived in the experiment. A recovery rate of 29.0% Sor at maximum was obtained when Bacillus licheniformis 18-2-a bacteria was supplied into a sand pack filled with silica sand. 20 figs., 7 tabs.

  9. SIRKULASI TERMINAL PENUMPANG KAPAL LAUT

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Etsa Purnama Sari

    2014-01-01

    Full Text Available Wilayah Indonesia yang terdiri dari pulau dan perairan menjadikan angkutan laut menjadi salah satu sarana transportasi yang cukup efektif di negara ini. Daya angkut yang besar dan beragam serta biaya yang lebih murah dengan jarak jangkauan yang luas, membuat sarana ini banyak diminati oleh masyarakat sekaligus juga merupakan pendukung utama perkembangan kehidupan sosial budaya dan roda perekonomian. Untuk mendukung proses transportasi laut ini perlu sarana berupa pelabuhan. Pelabuhan dalam melakukan pelayanan terhadap kapal memiliki beberapa fasilitas pokok dan penunjang yang wajib dimiliki. Salah satunya adalah terminal penumpang kapal laut dengan berbagai kegiatan di dalamnya untuk kedatangan maupun keberangkatan. Masalah ketidaknyamanan dalam berkegiatan, jauhnya akses sirkulasi antara satu kegiatan dengan kegiatan kegiatan embarkasi dan debarkasi yang tidak teratur, pembagian jalur sirkulasi penumpang dan pengantar penumpang yang tidak jelas seringkali muncul akibat sirkulasi yang tidak direncanakan dengan baik pada terminal penumpang kapal laut. Bahkan tidak jarang dapat menimbulkan adanya calo tiket hingga adanya penumpang tanpa tiket yang dapat masuk ke dalam kapal hingga kapal berlayar. Perencanaan sebuah sirkulasi yang tepat pada terminal penumpang kapal laut memerlukan kajian terhadap unsur-unsur sirkulasi seperti pencapaian, pola sirkulasi, jalur sirkulasi, serta bentuk ruang sirkulasi. Kajian unsur-unsur ini selanjutnya diselidiki melalui penelusuran masalah dengan analisis deskriptif melalui penggambaran objek penelitian yang terdapat pada Terminal Penumpang Pelabuhan International Yokohama, Terminal Penumpang Pelabuhan Kobe dan Terminal Penumpang Pelabuhan Osanbashi Hall   As one of the largest archipelago country, sea transportation acts as one of the most effective means of transportation in Indonesia. Large and diverse carrying capacity, lower cost with wide range of distances, are factors which making sea

  10. Research and development of basic technologies for next generation industries, 'high crystalline polymeric material'. Evaluation on second term research and development; Jisedai sangyo kiban gijutsu kenkyu kaihatsu. Kokesshosei kobunshi zairyo (dainiki kenkyu kaihatsu kenkyu)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1988-03-01

    This research and development is intended to establish a basic technology related to high crystalline polymeric material that has dynamic properties comparable to metallic materials by single polymeric material as a structural material. Thick and large high-elasticity molded forms were obtained by searching poly-arylate material, and by developing such processing technologies as high-pressure injection molding, composite injection molding, and elongation fluidity molding. High-elasticity molded forms with uniform internal orientation were obtained by heating and molding liquid crystal polymers under high magnetic field. Solution molding was performed on a molecular composite consisting of rigid chains and soft chains, which was laminated and bonded to have obtained an isotropic form with as high elasticity as 54 GPa. In addition, high pressure powder formation of cross-linked polymers of di-acetylene system provided an isotropic form with sound wave elasticity of 23 GPa.

  11. Research and development for solar thermal energy system. Research on advanced solar component; Taiyonetsu energy system no kenkyu kaihatsu. Kiki no kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Tanaka, T; Doi, T; Takashima, T; Ando, Y; Masuda, T; Fujii, T [Electrotechnical Laboratory, Tsukuba (Japan)

    1994-12-01

    Described herein are the results of the FY1994 research program for research on advanced solar components as part of research and development of solar thermal energy. The catalyst for liquid-film reactions is prepared, and the flask tests are conducted as the preliminary experiments for development of the reactor in which 2-propanol is fallen in liquid film over the catalyst dispersed to accelerate its decomposition. It is decomposable when fallen in liquid film even in the presence of 35% of acetone. The catalyst of ruthenium carried by activated coal is used to produce 2-propanol under an exothermic condition from acetone and hydrogen. Diisopropyl ether and 4-methyl-2-pentanone are produced as by-products, when the reactor tube is kept at 140 to 200{degree}C at the external wall, diminishing as temperature is increased. There is a temperature differential of 20 to 30{degree}C in the reactor tube between the center axis and external wall. 3 figs.

  12. 2nd Industry-Academia Research Exchange Conference. Research report for fiscal 1992; Dai 2 kai sangaku kenkyu koryukai. 1992 nendo kenkyu hokoku

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1993-06-24

    The above-named conference was convened on June 24, 1993, hosted by the Photovoltaic Power Generation Technology Research Association. The research achievement reports made at the event were 'Thermodynamic evaluation of boron in silicon' by Professor Sano of Tokyo University, 'Solar cell system payback time' by Professor Komiyama of Tokyo University, 'Delta-doped amorphous silicon solar cell' by Professor Konagai of Tokyo Institute of Technology, 'Interaction of silicon thin film and atom-state hydrogen' by Professor Shimizu of Tokyo Institute of Technology, 'Simulation of solar module characteristics' by Professor Saito of Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, 'Manufacture of CuInSe{sub 2} thin film for solar cell' by Professor Kunioka of Aoyama Gakuin University, 'Solar cell material/process characterization by use of photoluminescence surface state spectroscopy' by Professor Hasegawa of Hokkaido University, 'Research on tandem solar cell using compound-on-silicon semiconductor crystal' by Professor Umeno of Nagoya University, and 'Efficiency improvement in amorphous Si/polycrystalline Si tandem solar cell' by Professor Hamakawa of Osaka University. (NEDO)

  13. Relationship of mutual trust and understanding developed by researches for people

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    2002-10-01

    This is report on the special committee of natural radiation research of public acceptance of radiation, Japan Health Physics Society. It consists of three parts such as 1) seven papers on natural radiation and public understandings, 2) six reports on understanding of radiation by risk acknowledge, communication theory and a questionnaire survey and 3) four reports on one's explanation about radiation and radioactivity. Uranium series nuclide in the surroundings, environmental pollution in the sediments of lakes and seaside, background level of plutonium in the land near Kyoto University, radon concentration and Kobe earthquake are reported. Uranium and radon in environments, 137 Cs and heavy metals in Osaka Bay and Pu background concentration are explained. Security is very difficult to define when people think about radiation and radioactive. Some risk communication activities by WIN (Women In Nuclear)-Japan, JAPA (Japan Health Physics Society) and Universities are reported. It was clear that we had to know the mechanism of method of understanding the theme and importance of risk communication. (S.Y.)

  14. Pleural lavage cytology as an independent prognostic factor in non-small-cell lung cancer patients with stage I disease and adenocarcinoma.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Hokka, Daisuke; Uchino, Kazuya; Tane, Kenta; Ogawa, Hiroyuki; Tane, Sinya; Tanaka, Yugo; Tauchi, Shunsuke; Nishio, Wataru; Yoshimura, Masahiro; Maniwa, Yoshimasa

    2015-01-01

    We previously reported that cancer cells may be detected through pleural lavage cytology (PLC). In this study, we sought to re-examine the prognostic significance of the PLC status based on an extended dataset with an additional follow-up period. Pleural lavage following thoracotomy was cytologically examined in 1,317 consecutive patients who were diagnosed with NSCLC between 1987 and 2004 at the Thoracic Surgery Units of Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine and Hyogo Cancer Center. Among the investigated patients, 46 exhibited positive cytological findings. The prognosis of these patients was significantly worse compared to that of patients without positive PLC. Of the 844 pathological stage I patients, 18 had a positive PLC status and their prognosis was significantly worse compared to that of patients with stage I disease without positive PLC. In conclusion, positive PLC findings were associated with a poor prognosis and this finding was significant for patients with stage I disease. These results suggest the need for PLC status evaluation during staging and treatment planning in patients with NSCLC.

  15. Erection of the Rokko island bridge superstructure. Rokko island kyojobu koji no seko

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Tanino, A; Sakai, Y; Morikawa, Y; Sakoda, H; Egami, T; Maeda, Y; Shikata, H; Miyazaki, K [Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd., Tokyo (Japan)

    1993-10-20

    Erection of the superstructure of the Rokko Island Bridge (220 m long) was outlined which connects Rokko Island with Kobe City. The weight of the superstructure was nearly 7,300 tons, the highest single weight of any unit bridge structures ever installed in Japan. Because various ships cruised at the erection site every day, the superstructure was assembled and painted in a factory, and after shipped to its destination on a large barge, it was hoisted onto the previously constructed piers by three giant floating cranes (FC). Since it was most essential to match hook loads among the FCs, the hook load control system was developed in which hook load data of each FC were sent to a control center every 4-5 seconds by wireless transmission, and the data as well as their required control limits were graphically displayed to support a situation recognition, resulting in rapid and safe erection. The erection work started from that of piers in Aug. 1992, and that of the superstructure started in Nov. 1992 and ended in Feb. 1993. 13 figs., 4 tabs.

  16. Thorium, uranium and rare earth elements concentration in weathered Japanese soil samples

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Sahoo, Sarata Kumar; Hosoda, Masahiro; Kamagata, Sadatoshi; Sorimachi, Atsuyuki; Ishikawa, Tetsuo; Tokonami, Shinji; Uchida, Shigeo

    2011-01-01

    The geochemical behavior of thorium, uranium and rare earth elements (REEs) are relatively close to one another while compared to other elements in a geological environment. Radioactive elements like 232 Th and 238 U along with their decay products (e.g. 226 Ra) are present in most environmental matrices and can be transferred to living bodies by different pathways which can lead to the sources of exposure to man. For these reasons, it has been necessary to monitor those natural radionuclides in weathered soil samples to assess the possible hazards. It has been observed that granitic rocks contain higher amounts of U, Th and light REEs compared to other igneous rocks such as basalt and andesites. To better understand the interaction between REEs and soils, the nature of soils must be considered. In this paper, we discussed the distribution pattern of 232 Th and 238 U along with REEs in soil samples of weathered acid rock (granite and ryolite) collected from two prefectures of Japan: (1) Kobe city in Hyogo prefecture and (2) Mutsu city and Higashidori village in Aomori prefecture. (author)

  17. Breaking the Rules

    CERN Multimedia

    2015-01-01

    This week it's the turn of heavy-ion physics to take the spotlight as the Quark Matter 2015 conference takes place in Kobe, Japan. This is the year’s most important conference for the ALICE collaboration, but there have also been many results presented by ATLAS, CMS and LHCb.   ALICE presented a wide range of results elucidating the behaviour of the hot, strongly interacting state of matter produced when conditions mimicking those present in the first instants after the Big Bang are recreated in lead-ion collisions at the LHC. Taken together with the lead-ion studies carried out by the other LHC experiments, these have significantly advanced our understanding of the nascent Universe. Further details can be found here. Next week sees a very different kind of conference with the third edition of TEDxCERN. As with previous editions, this is CERN’s chance to showcase science and the essential role it plays, and must continue to play, in all areas of socie...

  18. FY 2001 report on the results of New Energy Adventure 2001 (advisory project); Shin ene adobencha 2001 (adobaizari jigyo) kekka hokokusho

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    2002-03-01

    For the purpose of deepening the understanding of new energy by general citizens, 'Clean Energy Festa' was held in Asahikawa city, Hokkaido, Takamatsu city, Kagawa prefecture, and Kamimashiki county, Kumamoto prefecture. The campaign at station was conducted at Yamagata station, Hiroshima station, Ogura station, Takamatsu station, Kobe station and Sapporo station, and the following were also carried out in various places of Japan: new energy lessons, visits to new energy facilities, and delivery of lectures on new energy. The program of Clean Energy Festa included the Dejimon (popular character doll) show, new energy quiz show, exhibition of new energy information and quiz about new energy, solar car workshop for parent/child, exhibition booths prepared by companies, corner for test ride on clean energy car, etc. As to visits to new energy facilities, visits were paid to snow/ice energy facilities, waste fuel production facilities, wind power generation facilities, photovoltaic power generation facilities, etc. Concerning the delivery of lectures on new energy, lectures were given on new energy and global environment, global warming, etc. (NEDO)

  19. Liquid Argon Barrel Cryostat Arrived

    CERN Multimedia

    Pailler, P

    Last week the first of three cryostats for the ATLAS liquid argon calorimeter arrived at CERN. It had travelled for 46 days over several thousand kilometers from Japan to CERN. During three years it has been fabricated by Kawasaki Heavy Industries Ltd. at Harima, close to Kobe, under contract from Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL) of the U.S.. This cryostat consists of two concentric cylinders made of aluminium: the outer vacuum vessel with a diameter of 5.5 m and a length of 7 m, and the inner cold vessel which will contain the electromagnetic barrel calorimeter immersed in liquid argon. The total weight will be 270 tons including the detectors and the liquid argon. The cryostat is now located in building 180 where it will be equipped with 64 feed-throughs which serve for the passage of 122,880 electrical lines which will carry the signals of the calorimeter. After integration of the calorimeter, the solenoidal magnet of ATLAS will be integrated in the vacuum vessel. A final cold test of the cryostat inc...

  20. Building Damage Estimation by Integration of Seismic Intensity Information and Satellite L-band SAR Imagery

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Nobuoto Nojima

    2010-09-01

    Full Text Available For a quick and stable estimation of earthquake damaged buildings worldwide, using Phased Array type L-band Synthetic Aperture Radar (PALSAR loaded on the Advanced Land Observing Satellite (ALOS satellite, a model combining the usage of satellite synthetic aperture radar (SAR imagery and Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA-scale seismic intensity is proposed. In order to expand the existing C-band SAR based damage estimation model into L-band SAR, this paper rebuilds a likelihood function for severe damage ratio, on the basis of dataset from Japanese Earth Resource Satellite-1 (JERS-1/SAR (L-band SAR images observed during the 1995 Kobe earthquake and its detailed ground truth data. The model which integrates the fragility functions of building damage in terms of seismic intensity and the proposed likelihood function is then applied to PALSAR images taken over the areas affected by the 2007 earthquake in Pisco, Peru. The accuracy of the proposed damage estimation model is examined by comparing the results of the analyses with field investigations and/or interpretation of high-resolution satellite images.

  1. Relationship of mutual trust and understanding developed by researches for people; Hitobito to tomoniaru kenkyuga hiraku sogorikai to shinraikankei

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    2002-10-01

    This is report on the special committee of natural radiation research of public acceptance of radiation, Japan Health Physics Society. It consists of three parts such as 1) seven papers on natural radiation and public understandings, 2) six reports on understanding of radiation by risk acknowledge, communication theory and a questionnaire survey and 3) four reports on one's explanation about radiation and radioactivity. Uranium series nuclide in the surroundings, environmental pollution in the sediments of lakes and seaside, background level of plutonium in the land near Kyoto University, radon concentration and Kobe earthquake are reported. Uranium and radon in environments, {sup 137}Cs and heavy metals in Osaka Bay and Pu background concentration are explained. Security is very difficult to define when people think about radiation and radioactive. Some risk communication activities by WIN (Women In Nuclear)-Japan, JAPA (Japan Health Physics Society) and Universities are reported. It was clear that we had to know the mechanism of method of understanding the theme and importance of risk communication. (S.Y.)

  2. Development of mass-production technique of the ATLAS thin gap chamber in Japan

    CERN Document Server

    Tanaka, S; Ishii, K; Iwasaki, H; Arataki, Y; Bando, T; Homma, Y; Ishino, M; Kondo, T; Kobayashi, T; Kurashige, H; Mikenberg, G; Miyazaki, Y; Nakagawa, Y; Nanjo, H; Ikeno, M; Nozaki, M; Ochi, A; Sasaki, O; Shoa, M; Sugimoto, T; Takeda, H; Takeshita, T; Yokoyama, C

    2004-01-01

    The thin gap chambers (TGCs) are used for the muon trigger system in the end-cap regions of the ATLAS detector. As the anode-cathode distance is small, 1.4 mm, chamber flatness is essential to achieve a uniform gas gain over the chamber. The TGC mass production phase at High Energy Accelerator Research Organization (KEK) started in January 2001. In order to perform a stable production with high quality we developed a chamber closing system. When we glue two half- chambers together, we sandwich them with a granite table and an aluminum honeycomb panel that keep the chamber flat from both sides. By using silk screens, we also control the quantity of epoxy adhesive that affects the chamber thickness. Owing to these developments, we can achieve the flatness of less than 100 mu m. Uniformity of detection efficiency of the TGC is measured with a cosmic-ray test bench at Kobe University. We have tested 300 TGCs so far. Position dependence of the efficiency is measured with a granularity of 5 mm- by-5 mm. The average...

  3. Techniques developed for the ATLAS Thin Gap Chambers mass production in Japan

    CERN Document Server

    Tanaka, S; Ishii, K; Iwasaki, H; Arataki, Y; Bando, T; Homma, Y; Ishino, M; Kondo, T; Kobayashi, T; Kurashige, H; Mikenberg, G; Miyazaki, Y; Nakagawa, Y; Nanjo, H; Ikeno, M; Nozaki, M; Ochi, A; Sasaki, O; Shoa, M; Sugimoto, T; Takeda, H; Takeshita, T; Yokoyama, C

    2004-01-01

    The Thin Gap Chambers (TGCs) are used for the muon trigger system in the end-cap regions of the ATLAS detector. The TGC mass production phase at High Energy Accelerator Research Organization (KEK) started in January 2001. As the anode-cathode distance is small, 1.4 mm, chamber flatness is essential to achieve a uniform gas gain over the chamber. In order to perform a stable production with high quality we developed a chamber closing system. When we glue two half-chambers together, we sandwich them between a granite table and an aluminum honeycomb panel to keep the chamber flat from both sides. By using silk screens, we control the quantity of epoxy adhesive that affects the chamber thickness. Due to these developments, we can achieve the flatness of less than 100 µm. Uniformity of detection efficiency of the TGC is measured with a cosmic-ray test bench at Kobe University. So far we have tested 300 TGCs. Position dependence of the efficiency is measured with a granularity of 5mm-by-5mm. The average efficiency...

  4. Numerical assessment of the influence of different joint hysteretic models over the seismic behaviour of Moment Resisting Steel Frames

    Science.gov (United States)

    Giordano, V.; Chisari, C.; Rizzano, G.; Latour, M.

    2017-10-01

    The main aim of this work is to understand how the prediction of the seismic performance of moment-resisting (MR) steel frames depends on the modelling of their dissipative zones when the structure geometry (number of stories and bays) and seismic excitation source vary. In particular, a parametric analysis involving 4 frames was carried out, and, for each one, the full-strength beam-to-column connections were modelled according to 4 numerical approaches with different degrees of sophistication (Smooth Hysteretic Model, Bouc-Wen, Hysteretic and simple Elastic-Plastic models). Subsequently, Incremental Dynamic Analyses (IDA) were performed by considering two different earthquakes (Spitak and Kobe). The preliminary results collected so far pointed out that the influence of the joint modelling on the overall frame response is negligible up to interstorey drift ratio values equal to those conservatively assumed by the codes to define conventional collapse (0.03 rad). Conversely, if more realistic ultimate interstorey drift values are considered for the q-factor evaluation, the influence of joint modelling can be significant, and thus may require accurate modelling of its cyclic behavior.

  5. 3 long bridges of dream were realized Opening of West Seto Motorway; Yume no 3 kakyo ga jitsugen/nishiseto jidoshado haitsu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1999-06-10

    Onomichi-Imabari route/Setouchi Simanami Thruway, which adorned the finish of Honshu-Shikoku projects was completed on 1st, May. With this completion, 3 long bridges of dream were completely realized, following to Kojima-Sakaide (1988) and Kobe-Naruto (1998). This time, 5 bridges of this Motorway, the world's longest cable stayed bridge Tatara Long Bridge, world's first 3 continuous suspension bridge Kurushima Strait No.1{approx}No.3 bridge and New Onomichi Long Bridge, were opened. 10 bridges including 5 bridges (In-noshima Long Bridge, Ikeguchi Bridge, Omishima Bridge, Hakata/Oshima Long Bridge and Oshima Long Bridge) already under service connect 9 islands between Onomichi, Hiroshima Prefecture and Imabari, Ehime Prefecture, with a route 59 km long. Characteristic design was adopted for each bridge to demonstrate world's highest bridge erection technology of Japan. In a series of concrete construction to support superstructure of these bridges, underwater non-segregation type concrete with low hydration heat cement mainly for foundation and substructure, and high fluidity concrete for dense reinforcement layout were adopted. (translated by NEDO)

  6. For the world's best cladding tubes, ten years of progress by Zircaloy Special Committee of JAPCO

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Mishima, Yoshitsugu

    1982-01-01

    The zircaloy special committee was organized in 1971 for the purpose of planning the trial use of two nuclear fuel assemblies for which Japan-made cladding tubes were to be used, for a BWR. Now, seven years later, these two fuel assemblies have completed their service life, and have been submitted to post-irradiation examination after cooling for a year. Zircaloy tubes have been produced by Sumitomo Metal Industries, Ltd., and Kobe Steel, Ltd., and more than ten years have elapsed since wholly Japan-made zircaloy cladding tubes were used for reloading fuel elements for the Japan Power Demonstration Reactor. In this report, the history, progress and significance of the works performed by the committee are summarized. The LWR fuel elements made in Japan have attained the highest performance in the world as the leak has been scarce, and the works of the committee is one of the pioneering activities in the development of LWR fuel technology. The situation for starting the committee, the activity of the committee during ten years, the significance and outcome of the committee activity are reported. (Kako, I.)

  7. Fiscal 1993 achievement report. International Clean Energy Network Using Hydrogen Conversion (WE-NET) technology (Subtask 8 - Development of hydrogen combustion turbine - Development of main accessories); 1993 nendo seika hokokusho. Suiso riyo kokusai clean energy system gijutsu (WE-NET) (Subtask 8. Suiso nensho tabin no kaihatsu - Shuyo hokirui no kaihatsu)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1994-03-01

    In the first fiscal year 1993 of the project, surveys were conducted about current technologies relative to cold energy-utilizing oxygen production equipment and high-temperature heat exchangers for the development of main accessories for a hydrogen combustion turbine plant. Kobe Steel, Ltd., conducted surveys about very low temperature heat exchangers and cold energy utilization technology used in facilities for gasifying liquid hydrogen or liquefied gas. Daido Hoxan, Inc., in its research on the possibility of air separator performance enhancement through liquid hydrogen cold energy application, studied reduction in power unit requirement, stable power supply responding to changes in load, safety measures, and so forth. Toshiba Corporation conducted surveys and studies about heat conduction improvement techniques and about the type, structure, and materials for heat exchangers for the embodiment of a high-temperature heat exchanger excellent in performance and high in structural soundness. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd., aiming to establish basic technologies for heat exchangers, studied efficiency enhancement with low pressure loss, improved hygroscopic moisture removing function, and new materials utilization for achieving high-temperature capability. (NEDO)

  8. Study on cobalt oxide; Sanka kobaruto ni kansuru kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1996-11-28

    This is No.91 report of National Institute for Research in Inorganic Materials, concerning cobalt oxide. For the growth of single crystal by the Czochralski method, shape of interface and contamination of impurities are affected by the convection of molten liquid in the atmosphere. Various oxides besides CoO were investigated. Solid solutions of Cr2O3 and Al2O3 into CoO were also studied. Non-linear optic and dielectric properties of single crystals, such as Ba2NaNb5O15 and LiNbO3, were examined. It was considered that the positive electron having positive electric charge can be used for the study on the negative electric charge defect in materials. However, the positive electron itself is rare, which results in the too low efficiency of measurement. Efficiency improvement of 50 times was achieved by introducing a high performance 2D position detector, which was still low efficiency of one-hundredth compared with photoelectron spectroscopy. It was found that the aggregation structure of positive ion defects in CoO is a misunderstanding of phenomenon caused by the electronic state in bulk crystals. As a result of the study on the optical properties of f-electron transition metals, transparent ceramics with addition of various rare earth ions were described. 162 refs., 106 figs., 14 tabs.

  9. Studies on silicon nitrides; Chikka keiso ni kansuru kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1997-10-31

    Sinters of silicon nitrides have excellent properties as a structural material, but their technological repercussion effect is not as much as has been expected. The cause is in insufficient understanding on the mutual relationship between microstructures and mechanical properties. Therefore, methods of controlling structures were first discussed in the studies on synthesis of high-tenacity ceramics. In order to achieve high reliability in material strength, discussions were given on means to have a structure developed with high reproducibility. Development was performed on {beta} powder which shows no abnormal grain growth and is stable at elevated temperatures. Then, quantitative evaluation was made on factors to manifest a self-compounding structure with columnar particles grown in ultrafine particles. The relationship between its chemical composition, microstructure and mechanical properties was also discussed. Particle shapes of silicon carbides and their fracture tenacity values were considered theoretically by using a drawing model. To evaluate the microstructure, it is important to determine the grain boundary composition, whereas an electric field radiation type high-performance electron microscope was developed. In discussing the fracture mechanism, a model was structured for behavior of covalent binding crystals against external stress. 164 refs., 95 figs., 10 tabs.

  10. Study on apatite compounds; Apataitokei kagobutsu ni kansuru kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1996-11-28

    To clarify the material properties of apatite compounds, the synthesis method, and the evaluation of physical properties of material and elementary technology were investigated. For the study on synthesis and crystal growth, a method of precipitating calcium phosphate on the surface of metal was investigated by means of relatively mild electrolytic method using liquid phase system. A new molding method of Ca defective apatite was established. Composite similar to vital bone was prepared by means of a new low-temperature sintering. For the study on chemical properties, from the model experiments, it was found that the self-organizing phenomenon, which is observed in the composite of apatite and collagen, happened between the organic single molecular film and crystal of apatite. For the study on evaluation of physical properties and elementary technology, the surface and interface of ceramics such as apatite were investigated by means of spectroscopy, the electronic state was analyzed by the quantum chemical calculation, and the crystalline structure was analyzed using X-ray equipment. 270 refs., 102 figs., 10 tabs.

  11. Study on electroseismic prospecting; Electroseismic tansaho ni kansuru kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Onaru, I [Kyushu University, Fukuoka (Japan); Irie, S [Mitsubishi Materials Corp., Tokyo (Japan); Tanaka, T; Mizunaga, H; Ushijima, K [Kyushu University, Fukuoka (Japan). Faculty of Engineering

    1997-10-22

    This paper illustrates the results of field tests conducted as a basic investigation of electroseismic phenomenon at the site of Kyushu University. The electroseismic phenomenon is a physical phenomenon in which electromagnetic response is derived by the incident elastic wave in the underground. According to Karl E. Butler, et al., mutual motion occurs between rock matrix and pore water by the propagation of P-wave in porous media. Spatial change in the water content per unit volume occurs, which is similar to the density change with the propagation of P-wave in elastic solid. Since the pore water with mobility can bring charges generated in the electrical double layer, the change in the water content agrees with the density change. Accordingly, domains of positive and negative overcharges are generated at the top of P-wave, which can be a current source. An electric field is generated between the domains. As a result of the field tests, it was confirmed that electromagnetic phenomena can be derived by the elastic waves. 2 refs., 8 figs.

  12. Biosensor. Recent research progress; Baiosensa. Saikin no kenkyu doko

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Matsue, T. [Tohoku Univ., Sendai (Japan). Faculty of Engineering; Yamada, H. [National Defence Academy, Yokosuka (Japan)

    1995-11-20

    Chemical sensor is made of up transducer that transfers the part and signal recognizing the measurement objects. Biosensor that normally transfers the amount of chemicals into electrical signal is a sensor in which living materials like enzyme, microorganism or antigen, antibody and so forth are used in the recognition part. Recently, the structure or the function of the living materials is clarified gradually with the significant progress in biofeedback, however, the synthesis of artificial material having same function as that of living materials is extremely difficult. Accordingly, it is very practical to develop high degree sensor function by using living materials with developed function in material recognition part, an important element of the sensor. In this report, solid state biosensor using electrode as a transducer is focused, and specially, recent research progress regarding the amperometric measurement which measures oxidation/reduction current is discussed. 35 refs., 8 figs., 1 tab.

  13. FY1995 research on humanoid; 1995 nendo humanoid kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1997-03-01

    The future robot must be a sensor-complex with high intelligence and flexible mechanical body. The purpose of the project is to improve the basic technologies by making a prototype of the human-like robot to work with human using various communication channels such as voice, facial expressions, and motion of the head, eyes, arms and legs. The following basic technologies are successfully developed and two humanoid robots were built as the total systems. They can perform some physical works communicating with human. Moreover these robots were connected to ISDN network for the experiments of tele-robotics. 1. a environment and human face understanding using vision and audition. 2. a speech conversation under the ordinary room environment. 3. a human machine communication using gesticulations. 4. a flexible human-like robot head, arms and hands. 5. a biped walking using the dynamic balance control. (NEDO)

  14. Iterative reconstruction for quantitative computed tomography analysis of emphysema: consistent results using different tube currents

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Yamashiro T

    2015-02-01

    Full Text Available Tsuneo Yamashiro,1 Tetsuhiro Miyara,1 Osamu Honda,2 Noriyuki Tomiyama,2 Yoshiharu Ohno,3 Satoshi Noma,4 Sadayuki Murayama1 On behalf of the ACTIve Study Group 1Department of Radiology, Graduate School of Medical Science, University of the Ryukyus, Nishihara, Okinawa, Japan; 2Department of Radiology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, Japan; 3Department of Radiology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Hyogo, Japan; 4Department of Radiology, Tenri Hospital, Tenri, Nara, Japan Purpose: To assess the advantages of iterative reconstruction for quantitative computed tomography (CT analysis of pulmonary emphysema. Materials and methods: Twenty-two patients with pulmonary emphysema underwent chest CT imaging using identical scanners with three different tube currents: 240, 120, and 60 mA. Scan data were converted to CT images using Adaptive Iterative Dose Reduction using Three Dimensional Processing (AIDR3D and a conventional filtered-back projection mode. Thus, six scans with and without AIDR3D were generated per patient. All other scanning and reconstruction settings were fixed. The percent low attenuation area (LAA%; < -950 Hounsfield units and the lung density 15th percentile were automatically measured using a commercial workstation. Comparisons of LAA% and 15th percentile results between scans with and without using AIDR3D were made by Wilcoxon signed-rank tests. Associations between body weight and measurement errors among these scans were evaluated by Spearman rank correlation analysis. Results: Overall, scan series without AIDR3D had higher LAA% and lower 15th percentile values than those with AIDR3D at each tube current (P<0.0001. For scan series without AIDR3D, lower tube currents resulted in higher LAA% values and lower 15th percentiles. The extent of emphysema was significantly different between each pair among scans when not using AIDR3D (LAA%, P<0.0001; 15th percentile, P<0.01, but was not

  15. Does a medical history of hypertension influence disclosing genetic testing results of the risk for salt-sensitive hypertension, in primary care?

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Okayama M

    2016-07-01

    Full Text Available Masanobu Okayama,1,2 Taro Takeshima,2 Masanori Harada,3 Ryusuke Ae,4 Eiji Kajii2 1Division of Community Medicine and Medical Education, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Hyogo, 2Division of Community and Family Medicine, Center for Community Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, 3Department of Support of Rural Medicine, Yamaguchi Grand Medical Center, Hofu, Yamaguchi, 4Division of Public Health, Center for Community Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, Japan Objective: Disclosing genetic testing results may contribute to the prevention and management of many common diseases. However, whether the presence of a disease influences these effects is unclear. This study aimed to clarify the difference in the effects of disclosing genetic testing results of the risk for developing salt-sensitive hypertension on the behavioral modifications with respect to salt intake in hypertensive and nonhypertensive patients.Methods: A cross-sectional study using a self-administered questionnaire was conducted for outpatients aged >20 years (N=2,237 at six primary care clinics and hospitals in Japan. The main factors assessed were medical histories of hypertension, salt preferences, reduced salt intakes, and behavior modifications for reducing salt intake. Behavioral modifications of participants were assessed using their behavior stages before and after disclosure of the hypothetical genetic testing results. Results: Of the 2,237 participants, 1,644 (73.5% responded to the survey. Of these respondents, 558 (33.9% patients were hypertensive and 1,086 (66.1% were nonhypertensive. After being notified of the result “If with genetic risk”, the nonhypertensive participants were more likely to make positive behavioral modifications compared to the hypertensive patients among all participants and in those aged <65 years (adjusted relative ratio [ad-RR], 1.76; 95% confidence interval, 1.12−2.76 and ad-RR, 1

  16. Associations among depression severity, painful physical symptoms, and social and occupational functioning impairment in patients with major depressive disorder: a 3-month, prospective, observational study

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Harada E

    2017-09-01

    Full Text Available Eiji Harada,1 Yoichi Satoi,2 Atsushi Kuga,1 Hirofumi Tokuoka,1 Toshiaki Kikuchi,3 Koichiro Watanabe,4 Levent Alev,1 Masaru Mimura3 1Biomedicine, Medicines Development Unit Japan, Eli Lilly Japan K.K, Kobe, Japan; 2Statistical Science, Eli Lilly Japan K.K., Kobe, Japan; 3Department of Neuropsychiatry, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan; 4Department of Neuropsychiatry, Kyorin University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan Purpose: To investigate associations among depression severity, painful physical symptoms (PPS, and social and occupational functioning impairment in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD who had achieved complete remission (CR or partial remission (PR after acute treatment.Patients and methods: This was a 12-week, multicenter, prospective, observational study. Patients with MDD treated with an antidepressant medication for the previous 12 weeks (±3 weeks who had achieved CR (defined as a 17-item Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression [HAM-D17] score ≤7 or PR (HAM-D17 score ≥8 and ≤8 were enrolled. Depression severity, PPS, and impairment in social and occupational functioning were assessed using the HAM-D17, the Brief Pain Inventory (Short Form (BPI-SF, and the Social and Occupational Functioning Assessment Scale (SOFAS, respectively, at enrollment (Week 12 and after 12 weeks (Week 24.Results: Overall, 323 Japanese patients with MDD were enrolled (CR n=158, PR n=165 and 288 patients completed the study (CR n=139, PR n=149. HAM-D17 and SOFAS scores were strongly and negatively correlated at enrollment (Week 12; P<0.0001 and Week 24 (P<0.0001. A weak negative correlation between the BPI-SF and SOFAS was observed at Week 24 (P=0.0011, but not at enrollment (P=0.164. Remission status at enrollment (CR or PR was associated with achieving normal social and occupational functioning (SOFAS score ≥80 at Week 24 in patients who had not achieved normal social and occupational functioning (SOFAS score <80 at

  17. Positive grid corrosion elongation analysis using CAE with corrosion deformation transformed into thermal phenomenon

    Science.gov (United States)

    Mukaitani, Ichiroh; Hayashi, Koji; Shimoura, Ichiro; Takemasa, Arihiko; Takahashi, Isamu; Tsubakino, Harushige

    software " Solid Works" and computer aided engineering (CAE) software " ANSYS" with corrosion elongation transformed into thermal elongation. We established a current collector corrosion elongation forecast and found that the microstructure controlled the Pb-Ca-Sn alloy; thus newly designed VRLA batteries (MU-series [A. Takemasa, I. Mukaitani, Y. Yoshiyama, K. Fukui, T. Sakamoto, T. Kuwano, M. Fukuda, H. Misaki, K. Uwatari, Shin-Kobe Technical Report 9 (1999) 11] for telecommunication and LL-series [H. Takabayashi, T. Shibahara, Y. Mastuda, K. Fukui, S. Hazui, Y. Matsumura, S. Kondo, Shin-Kobe Tech. Rep. 11 (2001) 35] for electric energy storage) which are lightweight and have long life are introduced here.

  18. Long-term effects of beta-blocker use on lung function in Japanese patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Oda N

    2017-04-01

    Full Text Available Naohiro Oda,1 Nobuaki Miyahara,1,2 Hirohisa Ichikawa,3 Yasushi Tanimoto,4 Kazuhiro Kajimoto,5 Makoto Sakugawa,6 Haruyuki Kawai,7 Akihiko Taniguchi,1 Daisuke Morichika,1 Mitsune Tanimoto,1 Arihiko Kanehiro,1 Katsuyuki Kiura1 1Department of Allergy and Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Hospital, 2Department of Medical Technology, Okayama University Graduate School of Health Sciences, Okayama, 3Department of Respiratory Medicine, KKR Takamatsu Hospital, Takamatsu, 4Department of Respiratory Medicine, National Hospital Organization Minami-Okayama Medical Center, Okayama, 5Department of Respiratory Medicine, Kobe Red Cross Hospital, Kobe, 6Department of Respiratory Medicine, Okayama Red Cross Hospital, 7Department of Respiratory Medicine, Okayama Saiseikai Hospital, Okayama, Japan Background: Some recent studies have suggested that beta-blocker use in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD is associated with a reduction in the frequency of acute exacerbations. However, the long-term effects of beta-blocker use on lung function of COPD patients have hardly been evaluated. Patients and methods: We retrospectively reviewed 31 Japanese COPD patients taking beta-blockers for >1 year and 72 patients not taking them. The association between beta-blocker use and the annual change in forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1 was assessed. Results: At baseline, patient demographic characteristics were as follows: 97 males (mean age 67.0±8.2 years; 32 current smokers; and Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung disease (GOLD stages I: n=26, II: n=52, III: n=19, and IV: n=6. Patients taking beta-blockers exhibited a significantly lower forced vital capacity (FVC, FEV1, and %FVC, and a more advanced GOLD stage. The mean duration of beta-blocker administration was 2.8±1.7 years. There were no differences in the annual change in FEV1 between patients who did and did not use beta-blockers (-7.6±93.5 mL/year vs -4.7±118.9 m

  19. Research and development of photovoltaic power system. Interface studies of amorphous silicon; Taiyoko hatsuden system no kenkyu kaihatsu. Amorphous silicon kaimen no kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Konagai, M [Tokyo Institute of Technology, Tokyo (Japan). Faculty of Engineering

    1994-12-01

    This paper reports the result obtained during fiscal 1994 on research on interface of amorphous silicon for solar cells. In research on amorphous solar cells using ZnO for transparent electrically conductive films, considerations were given on a growth mechanism of a ZnO film using the MOCVD process. It was made clear that the ZnO film grows with Zn(OH)2 working as a film forming species. It was also shown that the larger the ZnO particle size is, the more the solar cell efficiency is improved. Furthermore, theoretical elucidation was made on effects of rear face of an interface on cell characteristics, and experimental discussions were given subsequently. In research on solar cells using hydrogen diluted `i` layers, delta-doped solar cells were fabricated based on basic data obtained in the previous fiscal year, and the hydrogen dilution effect was evaluated from the cell characteristics. When the hydrogen dilution ratio is increased from zero to one, the conversion efficiency has improved from 12.2% to 12.6%. In addition, experiments and discussions were given on solar cells fabricated by using SiH2Cl2. 9 figs.

  20. i-SAIRAS '90; Proceedings of the International Symposium on Artificial Intelligence, Robotics and Automation in Space, Kobe, Japan, Nov. 18-20, 1990

    Science.gov (United States)

    1990-01-01

    The present conference on artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and automation in space encompasses robot systems, lunar and planetary robots, advanced processing, expert systems, knowledge bases, issues of operation and management, manipulator control, and on-orbit service. Specific issues addressed include fundamental research in AI at NASA, the FTS dexterous telerobot, a target-capture experiment by a free-flying robot, the NASA Planetary Rover Program, the Katydid system for compiling KEE applications to Ada, and speech recognition for robots. Also addressed are a knowledge base for real-time diagnosis, a pilot-in-the-loop simulation of an orbital docking maneuver, intelligent perturbation algorithms for space scheduling optimization, a fuzzy control method for a space manipulator system, hyperredundant manipulator applications, robotic servicing of EOS instruments, and a summary of astronaut inputs on automation and robotics for the Space Station Freedom.

  1. Research and development of photovoltaic power system. Optimization of bandgap of chalcopyrite semiconductors; Taiyoko hatsuden system no kenkyu kaihatsu. Kinseitaihaba no saitekika no kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Konagai, M [Tokyo Institute of Technology, Tokyo (Japan). Faculty of Engineering

    1994-12-01

    This paper reports the result obtained during fiscal 1994 on research on research on optimization of bandgap in thin film compound solar cells. In research on Cu(InGa)Se2 thin film solar cells by using a gas phase selenide making process, discussions were given on optimizing the following three processes: a process to raise temperature of a precursor film formed at a substrate temperature of about 150{degree}C, a selenide making process to perform annealing at about 500{degree}C, and a temperature reducing process. Good characteristics were obtained when selenium amount in the precursor is about 50%. In a bandgap control viewpoint, it was found that the conversion efficiency decreases rapidly when Ga composition is higher than 50%. A conversion efficiency of 14.9% was obtained to date at the Ga/(In+Ga) ratio of 0.4. In research on Cu(InGa)Se2 thin film solar cells by using a simultaneous deposition method, a conversion efficiency of 13.5% was obtained at a bandgap width of about 1.3 eV during research on manufacturing ZnO/CdS/Cu(InGa)Se2 thin film solar cells by using the simultaneous deposition method. Research has been carried out on manufacturing Cu(InGa)Se2 thin film solar cells using ZnSe interface layers. 8 figs.

  2. Report on the fiscal 1996 research cooperation promotion project, `the research cooperation diagnosis survey`; 1996 nendo kenkyu kyoryoku jigyo `kenkyu kyoryoku shindan chosa` hokokusho

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1997-03-01

    A diagnosis survey was conducted for Japan to cooperate in researching subjects on technical development in developing countries. In fiscal 1996, surveys were made on the following: (1) establishment of the industrial base (Vietnam), (2) preservation of biological diversification and the continuous utilization (Brazil), (3) fostering of the industry of automobile parts (Thailand), (4) finding out of items on environment related fields (India), (5) environmental response type system for effective use of water resource (the Philippines), (6) small size geothermal exploration in remote islands (Indonesia). (1) is research cooperation for welding technology, powder metallurgy technology, hypoid gear manufacturing technology, and iron making technology by the direct reduction method. In (2), research/development are conducted in cooperation with research institutes in Brazil on survey/identification/utilization of bioactive substances from biological resources in Brazil. In (4), an examination was made of the seeds for research cooperation in technical fields such as environment and energy. Having a strong relation with the industrial circle, SCIR is carrying out researches on aerospace, petrochemical, biology, electronics, medicines/drug, etc., which indicated fulfillment of intellectual infrastructure in India. 52 figs.

  3. Joint study on smelting reduction. ; Results of elementary study and future studies. Yoyu kangen kyodo kenkyu; Yoso kenkyu no seika to kongo no torikume

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    1991-03-01

    The paper outlines results of elementary study on the coal direct-use iron-making process and how to tackle with it in future. In the process coal and iron ores are used directly without prior treatments like coking and briquetting. The process is composed of three elements: smelting reducing furnace, preliminary reduction fluidized bed, gas reforming furnace. Making mathematical models as a means of study of the process, material balance and heat balance are calculated. Operational unit requirements are estimated, changing them in the range of 20-60% of the post combustion based on three fundamental processes each of which is composed of one or a combination of the three elements. The total cost is also trially calculated, estimating fixed cost including installation cost, etc. With no big differences in the iron-melting cost excluding by-products in each process, the cost may be reduced by 5-10% of that in the blast furnace process. The elementary study has continued almost satisfactorily and attained the expected target, though there still remain some problems. In 1990 the study started of a pilot plant with a 500t/day capacity. 12 figs.

  4. Leading research in fiscal 1996. Research study on advanced measurement/analysis technology; 1996 nendo sendo kenkyu. Kodo keisoku bunseki gijutsu ni kansuru chosa kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1997-03-01

    For development of production technologies suitable for environment, safety and advanced information-oriented society by improving the flexibility of production lines, some new measurement technologies were researched. Problem solution was attempted by combining the in-situ multi-dimensional measurement technology capable of easily obtaining various 3-D information with the non-contact photon measurement technology superior in operability and sensitivity under any environment conditions. This solution requires a compact radiation source with higher brightness and wider spectral range, and a high-sensitive detector. The technology concentrating photon onto minute regions, high-efficiency transmission, and control technology of photon wave front are also necessary. Development and international standardization of a common interface is unavoidable. In addition, its network is essential for advanced use of multimedia,. In the future, the comfortable life surrounded by advanced products and multimedia, comfortable social environment, safety and resource saving will be achieved by this technology. 94 refs., 75 figs., 15 tabs.

  5. Neurocognitive Impairments Are More Severe in the Binge-Eating/Purging Anorexia Nervosa Subtype Than in the Restricting Subtype.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Tamiya, Hiroko; Ouchi, Atushi; Chen, Runshu; Miyazawa, Shiho; Akimoto, Yoritaka; Kaneda, Yasuhiro; Sora, Ichiro

    2018-01-01

    Objective: To evaluate cognitive function impairment in patients with anorexia nervosa (AN) of either the restricting (ANR) or binge-eating/purging (ANBP) subtype. Method: We administered the Japanese version of the MATRICS Consensus Cognitive Battery to 22 patients with ANR, 18 patients with ANBP, and 69 healthy control subjects. Our participants were selected from among the patients at the Kobe University Hospital and community residents. Results: Compared to the healthy controls, the ANR group had significantly lower visual learning and social cognition scores, and the ANBP group had significantly lower processing speed, attention/vigilance, visual learning, reasoning/problem-solving, and social cognition scores. Compared to the ANR group, the ANBP group had significantly lower attention/vigilance scores. Discussion: The AN subtypes differed in cognitive function impairments. Participants with ANBP, which is associated with higher mortality rates than ANR, exhibited greater impairment severities, especially in the attention/vigilance domain, confirming the presence of impairments in continuous concentration. This may relate to the impulsivity, an ANBP characteristic reported in the personality research. Future studies can further clarify the cognitive impairments of each subtype by addressing the subtype cognitive functions and personality characteristics.

  6. Damages of industrial equipments in the 1995 Hyougoken-Nanbu Earthquake

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Iwatsubo, Takuzo

    1997-01-01

    Hanshin-Awaji area has a population of approximately 3 million and many industries, including heavy industry, harbor facilities and international trading companies. The 1995 Hyougoken-Nanbu Earthquake occurred just in this area which is 25kmx2km oblong containing Kobe city. About 5,500 people were killed and 250,000 people lost their houses. Japan society of mechanical engineers organized the investigative committee of earthquake disaster of industrial equipments after the earthquake in order to investigate the disaster damages of industrial equipments and to give data for a design manual for mechanical equipments against earthquake excitation. This is an investigation report of the disaster damages of industrial machine equipments. Damages to machine equipment of industries in the high intensity region of the earthquake are illustrated. The mechanisms of the damages and measures against earthquake and safety of nuclear power plant design are discussed. Then it is known that the design of nuclear power plant is different from the general industrial facilities and the damage which was suffered in the general industrial facilities does not occur in the nuclear power plant. (J.P.N.)

  7. System identification of smart structures using a wavelet neuro-fuzzy model

    Science.gov (United States)

    Mitchell, Ryan; Kim, Yeesock; El-Korchi, Tahar

    2012-11-01

    This paper proposes a complex model of smart structures equipped with magnetorheological (MR) dampers. Nonlinear behavior of the structure-MR damper systems is represented by the use of a wavelet-based adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (WANFIS). The WANFIS is developed through the integration of wavelet transforms, artificial neural networks, and fuzzy logic theory. To evaluate the effectiveness of the WANFIS model, a three-story building employing an MR damper under a variety of natural hazards is investigated. An artificial earthquake is used for training the input-output mapping of the WANFIS model. The artificial earthquake is generated such that the characteristics of a variety of real recorded earthquakes are included. It is demonstrated that this new WANFIS approach is effective in modeling nonlinear behavior of the structure-MR damper system subjected to a variety of disturbances while resulting in shorter training times in comparison with an adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) model. Comparison with high fidelity data proves the viability of the proposed approach in a structural health monitoring setting, and it is validated using known earthquake signals such as El-Centro, Kobe, Northridge, and Hachinohe.

  8. System identification of smart structures using a wavelet neuro-fuzzy model

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Mitchell, Ryan; Kim, Yeesock; El-Korchi, Tahar

    2012-01-01

    This paper proposes a complex model of smart structures equipped with magnetorheological (MR) dampers. Nonlinear behavior of the structure–MR damper systems is represented by the use of a wavelet-based adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (WANFIS). The WANFIS is developed through the integration of wavelet transforms, artificial neural networks, and fuzzy logic theory. To evaluate the effectiveness of the WANFIS model, a three-story building employing an MR damper under a variety of natural hazards is investigated. An artificial earthquake is used for training the input–output mapping of the WANFIS model. The artificial earthquake is generated such that the characteristics of a variety of real recorded earthquakes are included. It is demonstrated that this new WANFIS approach is effective in modeling nonlinear behavior of the structure–MR damper system subjected to a variety of disturbances while resulting in shorter training times in comparison with an adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) model. Comparison with high fidelity data proves the viability of the proposed approach in a structural health monitoring setting, and it is validated using known earthquake signals such as El-Centro, Kobe, Northridge, and Hachinohe. (paper)

  9. [Clustering analysis of Mycobacterium tuberculosis using the JATA(12)-VNTR system for molecular epidemiological surveillance in broad areas of Japan].

    Science.gov (United States)

    Wada, Takayuki; Tamaru, Aki; Iwamoto, Tomotada; Arikawa, Kentaro; Nakanishi, Noriko; Komukai, Jun; Matsumoto, Kenji; Hase, Atsushi

    2013-04-01

    Japan Anti-Tuberculosis Association (JATA) (12)-variable numbers of tandem repeats (VNTR) is a standard method for genotyping of clinical isolates of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in Japan. As a model study for nationwide surveillance, this study aimed to describe the tendency and frequency of genotypes of M. tuberculosis in a large number of clinical samples. Clinical isolates of M. tuberculosis (n = 1,778) were obtained from patients with tuberculosis in 3 areas, i.e., Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture, and Kobe City, during 2007 and 2008. The samples were analyzed using JATA (12)-VNTR. All genotypes were subjected to clustering analysis. In total, 1,086 (61.1%) isolates showed clustering. The most common clusters were composed of 3 members. Such clusters were considered to reflect either actual transmission or low discriminatory power of JATA (12)-VNTR. Several prevalent JATA(12)-VNTR genotypes formed large clusters and were discussed in relation with epidemiological findings of other studies. The findings of this study will aid in the construction of an effective genotyping-based surveillance system of M. tuberculosis, through improvement of interpretation of VNTR types, observation of certain particular strains in an area, and efficient detection of unidentified outbreaks.

  10. Energy saving type area hot water supply system using heat of hot waste water from the sludge center as hot source for hot water; New energy rokko airando CITY. Surajjisenta karano onhaisuinetsu wo kyuyuyo netsugen ni riyosuru sho energy gata chiiki onsui kyokyu system

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1998-01-01

    Heat source of area hot water supply system in Rokko island City (man-made island) is heat of combustion at the sludge center (sludge incineration plant) in this island. Dehydrated sludge cakes (230ton/day) brought from seven sewage disposal plants in Kobe City is combusted (850degC) in the fluid bed hearth. Combustion gas washed in the scrubber, hot waste water after the washing give heat into heat transfer water in the first heat exchanger. Temperature being 64degC in summer and about 50degC in winter, this heat transfer water is sent into the second heat exchanger at every condominium building throughout the pipe line system circulating in the area. At each home, gas heater and hot water supply devices fitted, additional combustion is not necessary in summer but is used according to demand in other seasons. This hot water supply service has been carried out since 1988 and at present has been used by 3600 homes. Amount of supplying hot water being about 3000cu.m/day, saving is calculated roughly as 60% of gas for hot water supply. Fee for this system is 1500/yen/month uniformly for each home. 14 figs.

  11. Effect of deep structure and surface layer (a) simulation study on the heavy damage belt of the 1995 Hyogoken Nanbu earthquake; Hado simulation wo mochiita `shinsai no obi` ni tsuite no kento

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Feng, S; Ishikawa, K; Kaji, Y [Chuokaihatsu Corp., Tokyo (Japan)

    1996-05-01

    A simulation study was done to identify the causes for the so-called heavy damage belt observed as a result of the Hyogoken Nanbu Earthquake. This study determines distributions of the maximum amplitudes on the ground surfaces, and discusses the effects of deep structures and low-velocity surface layers, based on the simulation by the wave equation with the underground model of Higashinada-ku and its vicinity in the north-south direction, observed seismic records and artificial waves. The two-dimensional scalar wave equation is used for the analysis. The velocity structure model used for the simulation is established, based on the elastic wave seismic survey results. The focus function is drawn by expanding or contracting the time scale, using the seismic records at Kobe Port Island and artificial waves. The analysis results show that the damage belt coincides with the areas at which the focusing zone of the deep structure overlap the amplification zone in the low-velocity ground surfaces, where relative density is amplified 1.5 to 2 times. It is also observed that large peaks repeat 2 to 3 times on the time scale. 5 refs., 8 figs., 1 tab.

  12. Effect of earthquake and faulting on the hydrological environment

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Abe, Hironobu [Japan Nuclear Cycle Development Inst., Toki, Gifu (Japan). Tono Geoscience Center; Sakai, Ryutaro

    1999-12-01

    The effects of earthquakes and active faults on the geological environment have been studied at the Tono Geoscience Center. The Hyogoken-Nanbu earthquake (January 17, 1995; M7.2) in Kobe and Awaji island caused significant changes in hydrology, involving a large amount of groundwater discharge in low-lying land and drastic water-table lowering (during only about 2-4 months) in elevated land near the epicenter. Simulation of the groundwater behavior in the vicinity of the Nojima fault was analysed to evaluate permeability enhancements. Calculated values such as water level changes were matched in a time series with the hydrological observed data in order to optimize this simulation model. Results indicate that the increase of hydraulic conductivity (5 x 10{sup -3} cm/s in weathered granitic rocks) and 1 x 10{sup -5} cm/s in fresh granitic rocks would produce a lowering of the water level at EL 180 m, and increase of discharge at less than EL 100 m, within four months after the earthquake. The study also suggested that the change in the hydraulic conductivity in the Nojima fault could not depend on the change in geological hydrology. (author)

  13. Dynamic analysis of 19-span continuous space frame bridge with lead rubber bearings based on vibration tests; 19 keikan renzoku rittai menshinkyo no shindo jikken ni motozuku doteki kaiseki

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kajikawa, Y.; Fukada, S. [Kanazawa Univ. (Japan); Sugimoto, M.; Hama, H

    1998-10-21

    The Hanshin/Awaji earthquake disaster caused extensive damage to many bridges of the Hanshin Expressway. N particular, falling-down of superstructures and other destructive damage occurred at Benten Kouku which located in downtown of Kobe. After the earthquake disaster, the continuous 19-span space frame bridge with lead rubber bearings which had approximate 565m bridge length was reconstructed in this region. It is the first trial in Japan to use large lead rubber bearings as an isolator or as a damper at the bottom of the steel pier for the purpose of reduction of seismic force acting on this bridge. As the lead rubber bearings, a spring member was used. In this study, by using jack with a raid releasing mechanism, monotonous loading tests loading statically at the bottom of the pier and rapid releasing tests deloading loads in a moment were carried out. Further, the simulation of the experiment was conducted on the analysis and the analytical model was established in comparison of the experimental data and the analytical data. Using this model, owing to carry out the seismic response analysis, more reliable analytical results were obtained. 22 refs., 24 figs., 3 tabs.

  14. Ductility Enhancement of Post-Northridge Connections by Multilongitudinal Voids in the Beam Web

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Sepanta Naimi

    2013-01-01

    Full Text Available Since the earthquakes in Northridge and Kobe in 1994 and 1995, respectively, many investigations have been carried out towards improving the strength and ductility of steel beam to column pre- and post-Northridge connections. In order to achieve these objectives, recent researches are mainly focused on three principles: reducing the beam section to improve the beam ductility, adding different kinds of slit damper to beam and column flanges to absorb and dissipate the input earthquake energy in the connection and strengthening the connection area using additional elements such as rib plates, cover plates, and flange plates to keep the plastic hinges away from the column face. This paper presents a reduced beam section approach via the introduction of multilongitudinal voids (MLV in the beam web for various beam depths varying from 450 mm to 912 mm. ANSYS finite element program was used to simulate the three different sizes of SAC sections: SAC3, SAC5, and SAC7. Results showed an improvement in the connection ductility since the input energy was dissipated uniformly along the beam length and the total rotation of the connection was over four percent radian.

  15. Reactor laboratory course for students majoring in nuclear engineering with the Kyoto University Critical Assembly (KUCA)

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Nishihara, H.; Shiroya, S.; Kanda, K.

    1996-01-01

    With the use of the Kyoto University Critical Assembly (KUCA), a joint reactor laboratory course of graduate level is offered every summer since 1975 by nine associated Japanese universities (Hokkaido University, Tohoku University, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Musashi Institute of Technology, Tokai University, Nagoya University, Osaka University, Kobe University of Mercantile Marine and Kyushu University) in addition to a reactor laboratory course of undergraduate level for Kyoto University. These courses are opened for three weeks (two weeks for the joint course and one week for the undergraduate course) to students majoring in nuclear engineering and a total of 1,360 students have taken the course in the last 21 years. The joint course has been institutionalized with the background that it is extremely difficult for a single university in Japan to have her own research or training reactor. By their effort, the united faculty team of the joint course have succeeded in giving an effective, unique one-week course, taking advantage of their collaboration. Last year, an enquete (questionnaire survey) was conducted to survey the needs for the educational experiments of graduate level and precious data have been obtained for promoting reactor laboratory courses. (author)

  16. Damages of industrial equipments in the 1995 Hyougoken-Nanbu Earthquake

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Iwatsubo, Takuzo [Kobe Univ. (Japan). Faculty of Engineering

    1997-03-01

    Hanshin-Awaji area has a population of approximately 3 million and many industries, including heavy industry, harbor facilities and international trading companies. The 1995 Hyougoken-Nanbu Earthquake occurred just in this area which is 25kmx2km oblong containing Kobe city. About 5,500 people were killed and 250,000 people lost their houses. Japan society of mechanical engineers organized the investigative committee of earthquake disaster of industrial equipments after the earthquake in order to investigate the disaster damages of industrial equipments and to give data for a design manual for mechanical equipments against earthquake excitation. This is an investigation report of the disaster damages of industrial machine equipments. Damages to machine equipment of industries in the high intensity region of the earthquake are illustrated. The mechanisms of the damages and measures against earthquake and safety of nuclear power plant design are discussed. Then it is known that the design of nuclear power plant is different from the general industrial facilities and the damage which was suffered in the general industrial facilities does not occur in the nuclear power plant. (J.P.N.)

  17. Coal prices rise

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    McLean, A.

    2001-01-01

    Coking and semi hard coking coal price agreements had been reached, but, strangely enough, the reaching of common ground on semi soft coking coal, ultra low volatile coal and thermal coal seemed some way off. More of this phenomenon later, but suffice to say that, traditionally, the semi soft and thermal coal prices have fallen into place as soon as the hard, or prime, coking coal prices have been determined. The rise and rise of the popularity of the ultra low volatile coals has seen demand for this type of coal grow almost exponentially. Perhaps one of the most interesting facets of the coking coal settlements announced to date is that the deals appear almost to have been preordained. The extraordinary thing is that the preordination has been at the prescience of the sellers. Traditionally, coking coal price fixing has been the prerogative of the Japanese Steel Mills (JSM) cartel (Nippon, NKK, Kawasaki, Kobe and Sumitomo) who presented a united front to a somewhat disorganised force of predominantly Australian and Canadian sellers. However, by the time JFY 2001 had come round, the rules of the game had changed

  18. Recent quality of ultra large rotor shafts

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Suzuki, Akira; Kinoshita, Shushi; Morita, Kikuo; Kikuchi, Hideo; Takada, Masayoshi

    1983-01-01

    Large size and high quality are required for rotor shafts accompanying recent trend of thermal and nuclear power generation toward large capacity. As for the low pressure rotor shafts for large capacity turbines, the disks and a shaft tend to be made into one body instead of conventional shrink fit construction, because of the experience of rotor accidents and the improvement of reliability. Therefore the ingots required become more and more large, and excellent production techniques are required for steel making, forging and heat treatment. Kobe Steel Ltd. have made about 20 large generator shafts from 420 t and 500 t ingots, and confirmed their stable high quality. Also a one-body low pressure rotor of 2600 mm diameter was made for trial, and its quality was examined. It was confirmed that the effect of forging and heat treatment was given sufficiently, and the production techniques for super-large one-body rotors were established. In steel making, vacuum degassing was applied twice to decrease hydrogen content, and VV restriction forging and pre-stage treatment were carried out. The properties of large rotors are reported. (Kako, I.)

  19. High frequency marine biogeochemical monitoring from a Japan-Korea ferry -1991 results

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Harashima, A.

    1993-01-01

    A ferry mounted monitoring system was developed and deployed to investigate the temporal and spatial variations of biogeochemical parameters (dissolved nutrients, phytoplankton biomass, temperature, salinity and pH) along the ship's regular route between Pusan, Korea and Kobe, Japan. Semi-continuous data recording (every 10 seconds, 4 transect cruises per week) and automated bottle sampling with filtration (24 cruises per year) were performed using the sea water taken continuously from the engine cooling system intake at 6m depth. These data are expected to clarify the natural variability in and anthropogenic changes to the coastal and marginal seas and the mechanism of algal blooming and to supply the ground truth data for the calibration-validation of algorithms to calculate pigment concentrations from ocean color remote sensing data. Since the start of monitoring (June, 1991), the data have revealed the contrast between the Seto Inland Sea and the outer continental shelf area and the spatial heterogeneities over smaller scales. Among the events apparent in this time series data are the termination of the spring bloom, the mid-summer decrease of phytoplankton biomass due to depletion of nutrients, and autumn blooms, which are characteristic of the periods following storms

  20. Injuries in Japanese Mini-Basketball Players During Practices and Games

    Science.gov (United States)

    Kuzuhara, Kenji; Shibata, Masashi; Uchida, Ryo

    2016-01-01

    Context: Mini-basketball is one of the most popular junior sports in Japan. Mini-basketball–related injuries may increase because of early specialization. However, no reports have been published to date concerning basketball injuries in children younger than 12 years of age. Objective: To prospectively study the incidence, sites, types, and mechanisms of injuries in mini-basketball teams. Design: Descriptive epidemiology study. Setting: Mini-basketball teams in Kobe, Japan. Patients or Other Participants: A total of 95 players in 7 community-based mini-basketball club teams (age range, 9 through 12 years). Main Outcome Measure(s): Data on all practice and game injuries for the 2013–2014 season were collected using an injury report form. Injury rates were calculated according to site, type, and mechanism. Results: The overall injury rate was 3.83 per 1000 athlete-hours (AHs). The game injury rate (12.92/1000 AHs) was higher than the practice injury rate (3.13/1000 AHs; P basketball players. The high practice injury rate in this study may be due to specific factors related to growth, such as individual differences in height, or to skills, such as inexperience in ball handling. PMID:27922287

  1. Optimal placement of active braces by using PSO algorithm in near- and far-field earthquakes

    Science.gov (United States)

    Mastali, M.; Kheyroddin, A.; Samali, B.; Vahdani, R.

    2016-03-01

    One of the most important issues in tall buildings is lateral resistance of the load-bearing systems against applied loads such as earthquake, wind and blast. Dual systems comprising core wall systems (single or multi-cell core) and moment-resisting frames are used as resistance systems in tall buildings. In addition to adequate stiffness provided by the dual system, most tall buildings may have to rely on various control systems to reduce the level of unwanted motions stemming from severe dynamic loads. One of the main challenges to effectively control the motion of a structure is limitation in distributing the required control along the structure height optimally. In this paper, concrete shear walls are used as secondary resistance system at three different heights as well as actuators installed in the braces. The optimal actuator positions are found by using optimized PSO algorithm as well as arbitrarily. The control performance of buildings that are equipped and controlled using the PSO algorithm method placement is assessed and compared with arbitrary placement of controllers using both near- and far-field ground motions of Kobe and Chi-Chi earthquakes.

  2. Evaluation of masticatory function after maxillectomy using a colour-changing chewing gum.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Shibuya, Y; Ishida, S; Kobayashi, M; Hasegawa, T; Nibu, K; Komori, T

    2013-03-01

    The purpose of this study was to identify the risk factors associated with the masticatory dysfunction after maxillectomy using a colour-changing chewing gum. Thirty-nine patients who underwent maxillectomy between January 2002 and May 2010 in the Department of Kobe University Hospital were recruited for this study. There were 20 male and 19 female subjects, with a median age of 73·3 years (range of 44-90) at the time of surgery. The intra-oral conditions after maxillectomy were classified by HS classification, and the masticatory function was evaluated by a colour-changing chewing gum and the results of a modified Sato's questionnaire. The scores of the colour-changing gum were closely correlated with the scores of the modified Sato's questionnaire (r = 0·661, P gum test masticatory dysfunction were the number of anchor teeth ≤2 and a soft palate defect. A colour-changing gum was found to be useful for evaluating the post-operative masticatory function, and it was important to conserve the anchor teeth and the soft palate to avoid masticatory dysfunction. © 2012 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

  3. Advanced research and development of gas hydrate resources. R and D of exploration and others - R and D of excavation technologies and others - surveys/researches on methods of evaluating environmental effects - surveys/researches on application systems; Gas hydrate shigenka gijutsu sendo kenkyu kaihatsu. Tansa nado ni kansuru kenkyu kaihatsu / kussaku gijutsu nado ni kansuru kenkyu kaihatsu / kankyo eikyo hyokaho no chosa kenkyu / riyo system ni kansuru chosa kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    2000-03-01

    Gas hydrate is a clathrate compound in a gaseous molecule as the host, stable under relatively mild environments. It is deposited in the 600m or deeper sea bottoms to form the gas hydrate deposit and massively occurring in the sea areas around Japan. This deposit has been studied viewed from natural gas resources, causes for natural hazards and contribution to the global warming. This project excavates a well in the deposit, to study possibilities of the technologies for decomposing, fluidizing and lifting the hydrate as the gas source, and for establishing the natural gas transporting/mooring systems in which its characteristics are utilized. The R and D activities are directed to the 4 areas, (1) development of the exploration technologies to determine the deposit sea area, quantity and conditions, (2) development of the stable well-excavation technologies, (3) studies on the effects of gas production on the environments, and development of the system for predicting the effects, (4) and studies on the application systems. The item (3) finds out the transportation/storage system possibly more economical than the current freezing/liquefaction technologies. The item (3) has the development themes of evaluating the geohazards caused by excavation and gas production, and their effects on the ecological systems. (NEDO)

  4. FY 2000 research cooperation project on the research cooperation for the development of an advanced multimedia information system. Results of the research; 2000 nendo kenkyu kyoryoku jigyo. Senshinteki multimedia joho system no kaihatsu ni kansuru kenkyu kyoryoku (Kenkyu seika)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    2001-03-01

    For the purpose of developing an information system that has the hi-tech technology useful for China and high diffusion, joint research was conducted on the development of the model system and the demonstrative test, and the FY 2000 results were summed up. As to the synthetic materials flow information system, FIT/GAP analysis was made for improvement of the materials flow system and research development of additional functions. Relating to the education/culture/information system, made were the structural design of the remote education realtime system, development of the control use program, etc. Concerning the agricultural information system, it finished the stage of the investigational analysis/basic design and reached the stage of the detailed design/manufacture/initial experiment. About the forest fire-prevention information system, conducted were the design of the work application/technical support for the development in the department of forestry. As to the medical information system, image database and software of high speed image processing were developed. In relation to the environmental monitoring/flood monitoring information system, application software was developed for the forecast of disaster, assessment of disaster, relief decision-making support, etc. (NEDO)

  5. Exame para detecção precoce do câncer cérvico-uterino: vivência de mulheres das cidades de Kobe e Kawasaki, Japão e São Paulo, Brasil Cervical cancer screening: experience of women from Kobe and Kawasaki cities, Japan and São Paulo city, Brazil

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Rosa Yuka Sato Chubaci

    2005-12-01

    Full Text Available OBJETIVOS: estudar a vivência de mulheres japonesas e mulheres brasileiras descendentes de japoneses, quanto a exame precoce do câncer cérvico-uterino. MÉTODOS: estudo quantitativo, de caráter exploratório, das características das mulheres quanto ao exame Papanicolaou. Participaram do estudo 149 mulheres: 79 japonesas e 70 brasileiras descendentes de japoneses. RESULTADOS: a grande maioria das mulheres (82,6% realizou o exame Papanicolaou, e as brasileiras submeteram-se mais a esse tipo de exame que as japonesas. A maioria das brasileiras (64,6% foi incentivada a fazer o exame pelo seu ginecologista, enquanto 26,2% das japonesas foram motivadas por campanhas de prevenção; maior proporção de japonesas (53,6% teve dificuldade para realizar o exame que as brasileiras (10,8%, sendo a "vergonha" a principal dificuldade relatada pelas japonesas. 48,6% das brasileiras e 31,5% das japonesas atribuíram suas razões para realizar o exame à importância de evitar doenças ginecológicas. CONCLUSÕES: as razões apresentadas pelas mulheres deste estudo para não realizarem o exame de Papanicolaou sugerem aspectos importantes a serem reconsiderados pelos profissionais de saúde que atuam na área da saúde da mulher.OBJECTIVES: this work aimed at studying the experience of Japanese women and Brazilian women from Japanese descent submited theirselves to cervical cancer screening. METHODS: an exploratory quantitative study, was performed intending to know women's characteristics typical of their nationality and their attitude towards the Papanicolaou smear. The number of participants was 149 women, 79 Japanese and 70 Brazilian. RESULTS: the main results showed that the large majority of women (82.6% submitted themselves to the cervical cancer screening. The Brazilian women (92.9% showed a higher participation percentage than the Japanese (73.4% women. The majority of Brazilian women (64.6% were encouraged by their gynecologist to run the Papanicolaou smear, whereas 26.2% of Japanese women were encouraged by prevention campaigns. Japanese women (53.6% had greater difficulty in submitting to the test than the Brazilian group (10.8%. The greatest difficulty of the Japanese women (58,7% was their sense of "shame" to run the Papanicolaou smear. CONCLUSIONS: the reasons presented by the women for not running the Papanicolaou Test points out to many important issues which need to be reconsidered by health professionals working with women's health.

  6. Research study of conjugate materials; Conjugate material no chosa kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1998-03-01

    The paper reported an introductory research on possibilities of new glass `conjugate materials.` The report took up the structure and synthetic process of conjugate materials to be researched/developed, classified them according to structural elements on molecular, nanometer and cluster levels, and introduced the structures and functions. Further, as glasses with new functions to be proposed, the paper introduced transparent and high-strength glass used for houses and vehicles, light modulation glass which realizes energy saving and optical data processing, and environmentally functional glass which realizes environmental cleaning or high performance biosensor. An initial survey was also conducted on rights of intellectual property to be taken notice of in Japan and abroad in the present situation. Reports were summed up and introduced of Osaka National Research Institute, Electrotechnical Laboratory, and National Industrial Research Institute of Nagoya which are all carrying out leading studies of conjugate materials. 235 refs., 135 figs., 6 tabs.

  7. Study of biogas storage; Biogas no chozo ni kansuru kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Fujii, I; Kimura, T; Umeda, H [Meiji University, Tokyo (Japan)

    1997-11-25

    Study was made on the storage method of a methane component in biogas mainly composed of CO2 and methane gases. Methane clathrate as molecular complex is one kind of clathrate compounds. Eight methane gas molecules are absorbed into 46 water molecules, or methane gas of 216 l is absorbed into water of 1 l, resulting in considerable compact methane storage. Although methane clathrate is usually stable only under a condition of low temperature and high pressure, its formation equilibrium shifts toward a low pressure/high temperature side by adding additives such as amine, ether and ketone. Acetone can shift formation pressure from 30 to 10atm at 1degC, and formation temperature from 1 to 10degC at 30atm. Although methane liquefaction is also an efficient storage method, it requires liquefaction temperature and pressure of -83degC and 45.6atm, respectively. The distance between methane molecules in clathrate lattice can be more shortened than that in high- pressure charged gas, suggesting higher storage efficiency. The study result showed that the handling of methane clathrate is possible around room temperature and pressure. 7 refs., 5 figs.

  8. Current status of acid fog research. Sanseimu kenkyu no genjo

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Murano, K. (National Inst. for Environmental Studies, Tsukuba (Japan))

    1993-07-10

    Acid fog research was behind in comparison with acid rain research. In case of acid fog, it is because the place generating sufficiently thick fog to collect is limited, the generating place is mountainous, its survey needs a lot of works, its collector is not convenient like in acid rain, or its sampling is difficult on its automation. Since the 1980s, an extensive survey on acid fog had been carried out centering the west coast of California, USA, and low pH fog (minimum pH 2.2) was observed. In the course of these researches, string type active fogwater collectors became a major sampling method, and the simulation of acidification of fog droplet in the atmosphere was extensively conducted. In Japan, already in the 1960s, field surveys on acid fog were conducted, in 1984 acid fog survey started on Mt. Akagi under a viewpoint of ecological impact, and there was a report that low pH fog (pH 3 to 4) continued more than 10 hours. It was pointed out that there were plant damage by acid fog in several locations, especially the tree mortality mechanism in Tomakomai was clarified. 50 refs., 10 figs., 6 tabs.

  9. Leading research on brainware; Nokino joho shori no sendo kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1996-03-01

    Leading research on brainware is conducted to realize the engineering information processing based on the learning, memorization, association, intuition, value judgment, and motivation which are activities of human brains. For the highly integrated information society at the 21st century, it will be essential to establish human-like information processing technology which is considered to be difficult with the conventional computers. The R and D theme for this technology will focus on the development of novel devices and systems by eliciting the principles and key roles of information processing functions of the brain and in living organisms from both viewpoints of the science and engineering and the brain information science. It is considered that important research targets are in elucidating brain functions and the modeling and developing novel devices and systems, such as brain information architecture, neural devices, neural networks, and man-machine interface. Technical trend surveys in the USA, the UK, and Germany were also conducted. 347 refs., 58 figs., 7 tabs.

  10. Study on low permeable backfill materials. Backfill materials for waste disposal facilities; Koshisuisei juten zairyo ni kansuru kenkyu. Hoshasei haikibutsu shobun shisetsu eno tekiyosei kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Shiraishi, F; Konishi, M; Shiraishi, H [Okumura Corp., Osaka (Japan)

    1994-11-15

    A discussion was given on the fundamental properties of mortar made from cement mixed with silica fume. Four kinds of silica fumes with different particle size distributions were used. The following results were obtained: distribution of pores in mortar admixed with silica fume shifts to the smaller radius side; while the admixture increases the compression strength in mortar, the increasing trend varies depending on the kinds of silica fumes; this is thought to be caused from the difference in pozzolan activity between silica fumes; and the strength increase is caused by densification of the structure due to the pozzolan reaction that is generated after hydration, or in other words, decrease in the pore volume. The applicability of the mortar was investigated as a filling mortar to fill up clearances between wastes. It was found that the filling performance can be controlled by mixing silica fume at an adequate level and adjusting the viscosity. The diffusion coefficient for the admixed concrete is smaller by 30% to one digit than that for the ordinary concrete. High-performance water stopping concrete of 0.11 {times} 10{sup 4}cm {sup 2}/s at maximum was obtained. The concrete can be regarded as a material having superb filling and water stopping performances. 6 refs., 4 figs., 5 tabs.

  11. Report on preceding researches in fiscal 1998 on the survey and research on conjugate materials; 1998 nendo conjugate material no chosa kenkyu sendo kenkyu hokokusho

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1999-03-01

    Research and development has been made on the 'conjugate materials (CM)' , the innovative materials in which ultra fine inorganic and organic structural units of molecular levels are introduced to be oriented regularly in glass matrix to respond to external force conjugately. The current fiscal year reported items having been made clear by further surveys and researches on CM as proposed by the fundamental surveys having been done as the second year. Section 1 summarizes significance of the research and development; Section 2 reports the result of the CM research and survey and the subjects related to application areas of CM; Section 3 reports the result of the CM market research performed newly in the current fiscal year; Section 4 reports the contents and result of the questionnaire survey to glass related small enterprises as to what interest these enterprises will have upon assuming that these CM products have been realized; Section 5 reports the result of surveys on patents and literatures related to photonics; and Section 6 states future problems in the CM research and development, and summarizes the future prospects of CM. (NEDO)

  12. Report on the fiscal 1995 research cooperation promotion project, `the research cooperation diagnosis survey`; 1995 nendo kenkyu kyoryoku suishin jigyo `kenkyu kyoryoku shindan chosa` hokokusho

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1996-03-01

    A diagnosis survey was conducted for Japan to cooperate in researching subjects on technical development in developing countries. In fiscal 1995, surveys were made on the following: (1) recycling technology of biomass industrial waste in the tropical region, (2) small size geothermal exploration in remote islands, (3) waste water recycling system using activated carbon, etc., (4) upgrading of proofreading technology of measuring standards, (5) technology to simply set up conditions for forming engineering plastics, (6) assessment of safety of chemical substances. In (1), energy and useful matters are recovered from oil palm of Indonesia by thermal decomposition technology. In (2), a system is constructed which can effectively explore geothermal energy in remote islands in the east Indonesia. As to (3), a survey is conducted in the Philippines. (4) contributes to upgrading of length measuring standards in Thailand. (5) attempts to improve technology of forming engineering plastics. In (6), research cooperation is made for preventing environmental pollution and health damage by chemical substances from happening in Thailand and for technology for assessing safety of chemical substances which contributes to the proper use of the hazardous material law in Thailand. 28 figs.

  13. FY 2000 research cooperation project on the support for heightening of capability of research institutes; 2000 nendo kenkyu kyoryoku jigyo. Kenkyu kikan noryoku kojo shien

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    2001-03-01

    For the purpose of supporting the heightening of capability of research institutes in the following 7 countries, China, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, India and Vietnam, exchanges/guidance/training were conducted by sending researchers from Japan and inviting researchers to Japan. Japanese researchers were sent for the following: cleaner technology in fiber dyeing finish (Thailand), 3 cases including the survey of the actual state of underground water pollution caused by harmful pharmaceuticals (the Philippines), 2 cases including the energy recovery in the fiber dyeing industry (Indonesia), making of energy management rules in the industrial field (Malaysia), spread of the photovoltaic power generation to areas where there is no electricity service in Tibet (China), 3 cases including the personnel development in the environmental management field of electric power companies (India), and 2 cases including the information exchange program in the energy conservation field (Vietnam). A total of 74 researchers were invited to Japan, that is, to the environmental protection training course of Japan. (NEDO)

  14. Leading research report for fiscal 1998 on the next-generation cold emission technology; 1998 nendo jisedai cold emission gijutsu no chosa kenkyu sendo kenkyu hokokusho

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1999-03-01

    The report covers the fruits of researches into technologies of cold emission control and cold emission application conducted in fiscal 1998. In the study relative to the current status of cold emission control technology, emitter materials that govern electron emitting characteristics are discussed, such as metallic materials, silicon, carbon systems, semiconductors, liquid metal, etc. In relation with the application of semiconductor process technology, the tunnel emitter is taken up that utilizes the semiconductor tunnel cathode. In relation with the cold emission process, an emitter high in aspect ratio is described, obtained by the inductive emitter deposition method in which organic metallic gas is decomposed by an electron beam. In the study of the cold emission control system and instrumentation, the merits and demerits of control by MOSFET (MOS field effect transistor) are discussed. In relation with the technology of cold emission application, FED (field effect display) development and problems, current status of sensor technology and problems, RF application technology, application to power systems, etc., are mentioned. (NEDO)

  15. FY 1986 Report on research and development of super heat pump energy accumulation system. System construction and operational study results (Systemization studies); 1986 nendo super heat pump energy shuseki system kenkyu kaihatsu seika hokokusho. System shisaku unten kenkyu (system ka kenkyu)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1987-03-01

    The studies on combinations of high-performance compression heat pump and chemical heat accumulation systems are conducted to construct the optimum systems for air conditioning/hot water supply for large-sized buildings and local districts, and also for industrial processes. For partial optimization of super heat pump (SPH) accumulation system, the SPH operational mode is changed to find the optimum conditions. As a result, it is found that system efficiency is the highest, and hence the power cost is the lowest, when the system is continuously operated night and day, followed by 2-night/1-day mode and night alone mode, in this order, for office building air conditioning, district air conditioning, and hot water supply. The effects of combination of SHP and chemical heat accumulation systems incorporated in an industrial process for heating are estimated. The results indicate that power load leveling effect is not 100% but 92%, even when the heat required for the daytime operation is totally supplied from the chemical accumulation system. The skeleton of the super heat pump accumulation system simulator is finalized, and the elementary system modules are developed, to allow simulation of general flows. (NEDO)

  16. Effects of a Changing Climate on Seasonal Variation in Natural Recharge of Unconfined Coastal Aquifers

    Science.gov (United States)

    Antonellini, Marco; Nella Mollema, Pauline

    2013-04-01

    Irregular rainfall patterns throughout the year result in the discontinuous natural recharge of coastal aquifers, which has an effect on the size of freshwater lenses present in sandy deposits. The thickness of the freshwater lenses is important in the context of farmland salinization and coastal ecosystems survival. This study presents numerical models that simulate continuous and discontinuous recharge in sandy coastal aquifers and the thickness of resulting fresh water lenses under current and future climate scenarios. Temperature data for the period 1960-1990 from LOCCLIM FAO and from the IPCC SRES A1b scenario for 2070-2100, have been used to calculate the potential evapotranspiration. Potential recharge was defined as the difference between the precipitation and potential evapotranspiration in twelve locations around the world: Ameland (The Netherlands), Auckland and Wellington (New Zealand), Hong Kong, Ravenna (Italy), Mekong (Vietnam), Mumbai (India), New Jersey (USA), Nile Delta (Egypt), Kobe and Tokyo (Japan), and Singapore. These locations have shallow coastal aquifers along low lying coasts and comparable aquifer structure, which is the result of similar sediment supply and deposition in the Holocene as well as by the sea level changes from the last ice age to the present time. Particular attention has been paid to temporal variations of natural recharge that can vary from continuous recharge throughout the year to discontinuous recharge. The most dramatic reduction in the magnitude of potential annual recharge by the end of this century will occur at lower latitudes (Mumbai, Singapore, Hong Kong and Mekong). The most pronounced change in length of the dry period occurs for Kobe (Japan) and Singapore even though the total annual amount of recharge remains practically the same. The Influence of variable recharge on the size of freshwater lenses surrounded by saline water is simulated with the SEAWAT model. Models where the recharge is applied

  17. Achievement report for fiscal 2000 on research and development of key technologies for superconducting generator. Research and development of key technologies to increase density, research and development of key technologies to increase capacity, research and development of design technologies, and research of technologies; 2000 nendo chodendo hatsudenki kiban gijutsu kenkyu kaihatsu seika hokokusho. Komitsudoka kiban gijutsu no kenkyu kaihatsu / daiyoryoka kiban gijutsu no kenkyu kaihatsu / sekkei gijutsu no kenkyu kaihatsu / gijutsu chosa kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    2001-03-01

    Researches have been made to increase density of 200,000-kW class generator and to increase capacity of 600,000-kW class generator necessary for putting superconducting generator into practical use. This paper summarizes the achievements in fiscal 2000. In the study of increasing densities of superconductors and field windings, strands were fabricated, in which aging heat treatment conditions, number of aging, and processing degrees between each aging were varied, to increase the critical current of Nb-Ti strand, wherein as high critical current as corresponding to about 90% of the target was obtained. Possibility of increasing the critical current with the final processing degree in the range of 4 to 5 was verified from the relationship between the final processing degree and the critical current. In the study of increasing capacities of superconductors and field windings, findings were acquired on enhancement of conductor stability and reduction in AC loss, with regard to superconductor strands well balanced in the two elements. Prospects were obtained in achieving the AC loss of 200 kW/m{sup 3} in the targeted superconductor. The residual resistance ratio was found to be 200, showing sufficiently high value, and sufficient function was verified in the stabilized copper. In the research of design technologies, primary basic design was performed. (NEDO)

  18. Studies on the catalysts for coal liquefaction. ; Rheological studies of coal liquefaction process. Sekitan ekikayo shokubai ni kansuru kenkyu. ; Sekitan ekika process no rheology teki kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Muraoka, T; Oda, H; Yokokawa, C [Kansai University, Osaka (Japan). Faculty of Engineering

    1991-11-07

    Hydrogenolysis of different rank coals as Taiheiyo coal (75.7C%) and Pittston coal (85.4C%) were conducted in the presence of four kinds of catalysts (CuCrO4, Fe2O3+S, MoO3-TiO2 and MoS3-Al2O3) with an addition of tetralin as vehicle. The variation in viscosity in every reaction system was traced in the initial stage of the reaction by a torque meter attached to an autoclave. As a result, in every system, the torque decreased in the initial stage of temperature rise because of reduction of a solvent viscosity. The torque subsequently increased with temperature indicating two peaks before the following gradual decrease. In Taiheiyo coal, both peaks were low, and its coal conversion was more than 85%, while in Pittston coal, both peaks were sharp and high, and both subsequent torque reduction and coal conversion were smaller than those of Taiheiyo coal. 5 refs., 10 figs., 2 tabs.

  19. FY 2000 research cooperation project on plastic processing technology/quality inspection technology; 2000 nendo kenkyu kyoryoku jigyo. Plastic kako gijutsu hinshitsukensa gijutsu ni kansuru kenkyu kyoryoku

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    2001-03-01

    For the purpose of improving the production technology of plastic products in Saudi Arabia, the joint development was made of the formation technology/quality inspection technology of agricultural use and food packaging use polyolefin film optimum to environmental conditions of the site, in the light of the needs there, and the FY 2000 results were reported. In the field survey/joint study, for the xenon type weather resistant testing machine and the extruder of the inflation film forming machine which were transported from Japan, the following were carried out: confirmation of the situation of accepting them on the site, functional test of computer of the extruder, installation of the machine testing weather resistance, and the trial operation. In the domestic support study, the extrusion test at laboratory was conducted using the polyethylene resin produced on the site to acquire the basic data for formation stability. Further, the film formation test was made using the equipment with the same specifications as those of the equipment introduced to the site to study the performance of screw extrusion and the formation stability of film. Also conducted were the analytical test/quality evaluation of resin materials/film. (NEDO)

  20. KTA 625 alloy tube with excellent corrosion resistance and heat resistance

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Fujiwara, Kazuo; Kadonaga, Toshiki; Kikuma, Seiji.

    1982-01-01

    The problems when seamless tubes are produced by using nickel base 625 alloy (61Ni-22Cr-9Mo-Cb) which is known as a corrosion resistant and heat resistant alloyF were examined, and the confirmation experiment was carried out on its corrosion resistance and heat resistance. Various difficulties have been experienced in the tube making owing to the characteristics due to the chemical composition, but they were able to be solved by the repeated experiments. As for the characteristics of the product, the corrosion resistance was excellent particularly in the environment containing high temperature, high concentration chloride, and also the heat resistance was excellent in the wide temperature range from normal temperature to 1000 deg C. From these facts, the wide fields of application are expected for these alloy tubes, including the evaporation and concentration equipment for radioactive wastes in atomic energy field. Expecting the increase of demand hereafter, Kobe Steel Ltd. examined the problems when seamless tubes are produced from the 625 alloy by Ugine Sejournet process. The aptitude for tube production such as the chemical composition, production process and the product characteristics, the corrosion resistance against chloride, hydrogen sulfide, polythionic and other acids,F the high temperature strength and oxidation resistance are reported. (Kako, I.)

  1. Failures and suggestions in Earthquake forecasting and prediction

    Science.gov (United States)

    Sacks, S. I.

    2013-12-01

    Seismologists have had poor success in earthquake prediction. However, wide ranging observations from earlier great earthquakes show that precursory data can exist. In particular, two aspects seem promising. In agreement with simple physical modeling, b-values decrease in highly loaded fault zones for years before failure. Potentially more usefully, in high stress regions, breakdown of dilatant patches leading to failure can yield expelled water-related observations. The volume increase (dilatancy) caused by high shear stresses decreases the pore pressure. Eventually, water flows back in restoring the pore pressure, promoting failure and expelling the extra water. Of course, in a generally stressed region there may be many small patches that fail, such as observed before the 1975 Haicheng earthquake. Only a few days before the major event will most of the dilatancy breakdown occur in the fault zone itself such as for the Tangshan, 1976 destructive event. Observations of 'water release' effects have been observed before the 1923 great Kanto earthquake, the 1984 Yamasaki event, the 1975 Haicheng and the 1976 Tangshan earthquakes and also the 1995 Kobe earthquake. While there are obvious difficulties in water release observations, not least because there is currently no observational network anywhere, historical data does suggest some promise if we broaden our approach to this difficult subject.

  2. Experimental Characterisation of the Interfacial Structure during Counter-Current Flow Limitation in a Model of the Hot Leg of a PWR

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Christophe Vallée

    2012-01-01

    Full Text Available In order to investigate the two-phase flow behaviour during counter-current flow limitation in the hot leg of a pressurised water reactor, dedicated experiments were performed in a scaled down model of Kobe University. The experiments were performed with air and water at atmospheric pressure and room temperature. At high flow rates, CCFL occurs and the discharge of water to the reactor pressure vessel simulator is limited by the formation of slugs carrying liquid back to the steam generator. The structure of the interface was observed from the side of the channel test section using a high-speed video camera. An algorithm was developed to recognise the stratified interface in the camera frames after background subtraction. This method allows extracting the water level at any position in the image as well as performing further statistical treatments. The evolution of the interfacial structure along the horizontal part of the hot leg is shown by the visualisation of the probability distribution of the water level and analysed in function of the liquid and gas flow rates. The data achieved are useful for the analysis of the flow conditions as well as for the validation of modelling approaches like computational fluid dynamics.

  3. Thermal testing of solid neutron shielding materials

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Boonstra, R.H.

    1993-01-01

    In May-June 1989 the first series of full-scale thermal tests was performed on three shielding materials: Bisco Products NS-4-FR, and Reactor Experiments RX-201 and RX-207. The tests are described in Thermal Testing of Solid Neutron Shielding Materials, GA-A19897, R.H. Boonstra, General Atomics (1990), and demonstrated the acceptability of these materials in a thermal accident. Subsequent design changes to the cask rendered these materials unattractive in terms of weight or adequate service temperature margin. For the second test series a material specification was developed for a polypropylene based neutron shield with a softening point of at least 280degF. Table 1 lists the neutron shield materials tested. The Envirotech and Bisco materials are not polypropylene, but were tested as potential backup materials in the event that a satisfactory polypropylene could not be found. The Bisco modified NS-4 and Reactor Experiments HMPP are both acceptable materials from a thermal accident standpoint for use in the shipping cask. Tests of the Kobe PP-R01 and Envirotech HDPE were stopped for safety reasons, due to inability to deal with the heavy smoke, before completion of the 30-minute heating phase. However these materials may prove satisfactory if they could undergo the complete heating. (J.P.N.)

  4. Drug design with Cdc7 kinase: a potential novel cancer therapy target

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Masaaki Sawa

    2008-11-01

    Full Text Available Masaaki Sawa1, Hisao Masai21Carna Biosciences, Inc., Kobe, Japan; 2Genome Dynamics Project, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo, JapanAbstract: Identification of novel molecular targets is critical in development of new and efficient cancer therapies. Kinases are one of the most common drug targets with a potential for cancer therapy. Cell cycle progression is regulated by a number of kinases, some of which are being developed to treat cancer. Cdc7 is a serine-threonine kinase originally discovered in budding yeast, which has been shown to be necessary to initiate the S phase. Inhibition of Cdc7 in cancer cells retards the progression of the S phase, accumulates DNA damage, and induces p53-independent cell death, but the same treatment in normal cells does not significantly affect viability. Low-molecular-weight compounds that inhibit Cdc7 kinase with an IC50 of less than 10 nM have been identified, and shown to be effective in the inhibition of tumor growth in animal models. Thus Cdc7 kinase can be recognized as a novel molecular target for cancer therapy.Keywords: Cdc7 kinase, cell cycle, replication fork, genome stability, DNA damages, ATP-binding pocket, kinase inhibitor

  5. Seismic Response Analysis and Test of 1/8 Scale Model for a Spent Fuel Storage Cask

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Lee, Jae Han; Park, C. G.; Koo, G. H.; Seo, G. S. [Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute, Daejeon (Korea, Republic of); Yeom, S. H. [Chungnam Univ., Daejeon (Korea, Republic of); Choi, B. I.; Cho, Y. D. [Korea Hydro and Nuclear Power Co. Ltd., Daejeon (Korea, Republic of)

    2005-07-15

    The seismic response tests of a spent fuel dry storage cask model of 1/8 scale are performed for an typical 1940 El-centro and Kobe earthquakes. This report firstly focuses on the data generation by seismic response tests of a free standing storage cask model to check the overturing possibility of a storage cask and the slipping displacement on concrete slab bed. The variations in seismic load magnitude and cask/bed interface friction are considered in tests. The test results show that the model gives an overturning response for an extreme condition only. A FEM model is built for the test model of 1/8 scale spent fuel dry storage cask using available 3D contact conditions in ABAQUS/Explicit. Input load for this analysis is El-centro earthquake, and the friction coefficients are obtained from the test result. Penalty and kinematic contact methods of ABAQUS are used for a mechanical contact formulation. The analysis methods was verified with the rocking angle obtained by seismic response tests. The kinematic contact method with an adequate normal contact stiffness showed a good agreement with tests. Based on the established analysis method for 1/8 scale model, the seismic response analyses of a full scale model are performed for design and beyond design seismic loads.

  6. Radon anomalies prior to earthquakes (1). Review of previous studies

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Ishikawa, Tetsuo; Tokonami, Shinji; Yasuoka, Yumi; Shinogi, Masaki; Nagahama, Hiroyuki; Omori, Yasutaka; Kawada, Yusuke

    2008-01-01

    The relationship between radon anomalies and earthquakes has been studied for more than 30 years. However, most of the studies dealt with radon in soil gas or in groundwater. Before the 1995 Hyogoken-Nanbu earthquake, an anomalous increase of atmospheric radon was observed at Kobe Pharmaceutical University. The increase was well fitted with a mathematical model related to earthquake fault dynamics. This paper reports the significance of this observation, reviewing previous studies on radon anomaly before earthquakes. Groundwater/soil radon measurements for earthquake prediction began in 1970's in Japan as well as foreign countries. One of the most famous studies in Japan is groundwater radon anomaly before the 1978 Izu-Oshima-kinkai earthquake. We have recognized the significance of radon in earthquake prediction research, but recently its limitation was also pointed out. Some researchers are looking for a better indicator for precursors; simultaneous measurements of radon and other gases are new trials in recent studies. Contrary to soil/groundwater radon, we have not paid much attention to atmospheric radon before earthquakes. However, it might be possible to detect precursors in atmospheric radon before a large earthquake. In the next issues, we will discuss the details of the anomalous atmospheric radon data observed before the Hyogoken-Nanbu earthquake. (author)

  7. The Fujitsuru Mystery: Translocal Xiamen, Japanese Expansionism, and the Asian Cocaine Trade, 1900-1937

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Peter Thilly

    2017-12-01

    Full Text Available This article examines the Asian cocaine trade of the early twentieth century. It argues that the distribution of cocaine into Asian colonial ports was controlled by people from southeastern China who took advantage of a convergence of factors: consumer markets in India and Southeast Asia, shifting political winds surrounding drug use, the rise of Japan, and the translocal nature of southern Fujianese society. Xiamen was not only a port but also the hub of a society that was omnipresent in the maritime world of early twentieth-century Asia: natives of southern Fujian resided in Calcutta, Singapore, Rangoon, Manila, and Kobe, constituting a huge percentage of the crew and passengers of the steamships that connected those places. The implications of this story are relevant to two important themes of this special issue: the history of control and evasion in maritime Asia, and, relatedly, the ways in which states sought to extend their jurisdiction over the seas. Fujianese cocaine smugglers saw an opportunity when colonial governments banned cocaine imports, and took advantage of their place within the Japanese imperial sphere to acquire drugs and penetrate colonial markets. The evidence presented here thus highlights the place of opportunism and entrepreneurialism within the wider history of state efforts to control trade.

  8. Risk Factors and Surgical Refinements of Postresective Mandibular Reconstruction: A Retrospective Study

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Akiko Sakakibara

    2014-01-01

    Full Text Available Background. Postresective mandibular reconstruction is common in cases of oral and mandibular tumors. However, complications such as infection, plate exposure, or plate fracture can occur. We identified several significant risk factors of complications after reconstructive surgery and compared the effectiveness of different surgical techniques for reducing the incidence of complications. Methods. This study is a retrospective analysis of 28 oromandibular cancer cases that required reconstructive surgery between January 1999 and December 2011 at Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine in Japan. All cases were classified using Hashikawa’s CAT and Eichner’s classification methods. Then, we determined whether these classifications and different treatment or surgical methods were significantly related to complications. Results. Complications after mandibular reconstruction occurred in 10/28 patients (36%. Specifically, five patients had plate fractures, four had plate exposures, and one had an infection. Radiation therapy and closure without any flaps were significantly related to infection or plate exposure. The wrap-around technique of securing reconstruction plates was used in 14 cases, whereas the run-through technique was used in two cases. Conclusions. The success of mandibular reconstruction depends on both mechanical and biological factors, such as the location of defects, presence of occlusions, and the amount of vascularization of the flap.

  9. The Road to Total Earthquake Safety

    Science.gov (United States)

    Frohlich, Cliff

    Cinna Lomnitz is possibly the most distinguished earthquake seismologist in all of Central and South America. Among many other credentials, Lomnitz has personally experienced the shaking and devastation that accompanied no fewer than five major earthquakes—Chile, 1939; Kern County, California, 1952; Chile, 1960; Caracas,Venezuela, 1967; and Mexico City, 1985. Thus he clearly has much to teach someone like myself, who has never even actually felt a real earthquake.What is this slim book? The Road to Total Earthquake Safety summarizes Lomnitz's May 1999 presentation at the Seventh Mallet-Milne Lecture, sponsored by the Society for Earthquake and Civil Engineering Dynamics. His arguments are motivated by the damage that occurred in three earthquakes—Mexico City, 1985; Loma Prieta, California, 1989; and Kobe, Japan, 1995. All three quakes occurred in regions where earthquakes are common. Yet in all three some of the worst damage occurred in structures located a significant distance from the epicenter and engineered specifically to resist earthquakes. Some of the damage also indicated that the structures failed because they had experienced considerable rotational or twisting motion. Clearly, Lomnitz argues, there must be fundamental flaws in the usually accepted models explaining how earthquakes generate strong motions, and how we should design resistant structures.

  10. A clinical assessment of laser surgery for recurrent tongue cancer following radiotherapy

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Ishii, Junnosuke; Fujita, Kunio; Komatsubara, Hideki; Umeda, Masahiro; Komori, Takahide

    2004-01-01

    Laser surgery can control intraoperative hemorrhaging and enable lesions to be accurately removed since, unlike an electrotome, it does not effect electrocontractility. It can also reduce postoperative pain and dysfunction. This study investigated the efficacy of laser surgery in recurrent tongue cancer following radiotherapy. Of the total of 105 patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue (T1, T2N0) who underwent radiotherapy at the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, at some point between 1980 and 1998, 24 (22.9%) experienced local recurrence. Sixteen of these patients underwent surgical removal of the tumor. Of these 16 patients, 8 (4 early- and 4 late-stage recurrence) had partial glossectomy by laser surgery. Following laser surgery, 2 (1 early- and 1 late-stage recurrence) of the 8 patients died from neck metastasis and another 2 (early-stage recurrence) died from other diseases. The primary and neck tumors are both under control in 3 (late-stage recurrence) of the remaining 4 patients. Laser surgery for late-stage recurrent tongue cancer following radiotherapy appears to be a suitable treatment, although comprehensive glossectomy with/without radical neck dissection is necessary for early-stage recurrent cases after radiotherapy. (author)

  11. New development of integrated CT simulation system for radiation therapy planning

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Kushima, Takeyuki; Kono, Michio

    1993-01-01

    In order to put more accurate radiotherapy into practice, a radiotherapy planning system using CT, which is named CT simulation system, has been developed and introduced at Kobe University Hospital. The CT simulation system consists of a CT scanner, an image processing work-station, and a laser marking system. The target area of radiation is determined on each CT axial image of scout view in the work-station. Three-dimensional treatment planning is feasible on the basis of the two-dimensional tumor information in CT axial images. After setting treatment parameters, the contour of the radiation field on beam's eye view and the iso-center position are calculated by computer. This system makes it possible to choose an appropriate irradiation method and an optimal dose distribution. In the present study we examined the fundamental capability of this system. The laser marking system proved to have a very high degree of accuracy. The outcome of a phantom test raised the strong possibility that this system may be applied clinically. In addition to these basic findings, this paper describes preliminary clinical observations that support the good reproducibility of the radiation field projected with the CT simulator. In conclusion, this system is of high value for radiation therapy planning. (author)

  12. Singer's preferred acoustic condition in performance in an opera house and self-perception of the singer's voice

    Science.gov (United States)

    Noson, Dennis; Kato, Kosuke; Ando, Yoichi

    2004-05-01

    Solo singers have been shown to over estimate the relative sound pressure level of a delayed, external reproduction of their own voice, singing single syllables, which, in turn, appears to influence the preferred delay of simulated stage reflections [Noson, Ph.D. thesis, Kobe University, 2003]. Bone conduction is thought to be one factor separating singer versus instrumental performer judgments of stage acoustics. Using a parameter derived from the vocal signal autocorrelation function (ACF envelope), the changes in singer preference for delayed reflections is primarily explained by the ACF parameter, rather than internal bone conduction. An auditory model of a singer's preferred reflection delay is proposed, combining the effects of acoustical environment (reflection amplitude), bone conduction, and performer vocal overestimate, which may be applied to the acoustic design of reflecting elements in both upstage and forestage environments of opera stages. For example, soloists who characteristically underestimate external voice levels (or overestimate their own voice) should be provided shorter distances to reflective panels-irrespective of their singing style. Adjustable elements can be deployed to adapt opera houses intended for bel canto style performances to other styles. Additional examples will also be discussed. a)Now at Kumamoto Univ., Kumamoto, Japan. b)Now at: 1-10-27 Yamano Kami, Kumamoto, Japan.

  13. Seasonal variation in natural recharge of coastal aquifers

    Science.gov (United States)

    Mollema, Pauline N.; Antonellini, Marco

    2013-06-01

    Many coastal zones around the world have irregular precipitation throughout the year. This results in discontinuous natural recharge of coastal aquifers, which affects the size of freshwater lenses present in sandy deposits. Temperature data for the period 1960-1990 from LocClim (local climate estimator) and those obtained from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) SRES A1b scenario for 2070-2100, have been used to calculate the potential evapotranspiration with the Thornthwaite method. Potential recharge (difference between precipitation and potential evapotranspiration) was defined at 12 locations: Ameland (The Netherlands), Auckland and Wellington (New Zealand); Hong Kong (China); Ravenna (Italy), Mekong (Vietnam), Mumbai (India), New Jersey (USA), Nile Delta (Egypt), Kobe and Tokyo (Japan), and Singapore. The influence of variable/discontinuous recharge on the size of freshwater lenses was simulated with the SEAWAT model. The discrepancy between models with continuous and with discontinuous recharge is relatively small in areas where the total annual recharge is low (258-616 mm/year); but in places with Monsoon-dominated climate (e.g. Mumbai, with recharge up to 1,686 mm/year), the difference in freshwater-lens thickness between the discontinuous and the continuous model is larger (up to 5 m) and thus important to consider in numerical models that estimate freshwater availability.

  14. List of titles of master's and doctor's dissertations in atomic energy engineering in 1990

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    1990-01-01

    The report presents a list of dissertations in the field of atomic energy engineering filed in 1990. The list was developed by the Special Working Committee for Atomic Energy Education. The list contains a total of 228 master's dissertations, 20 of which were submitted to Hokkaido University, 21 to Tohoku University, 28 to the University of Tokyo, 22 to Tokyo Institute of Technology, 6 to Tokai University, 12 to Musashi Institute of Technology, 23 to Nagoya University, 27 to Kyoto University, 26 to Osaka University, 3 to Kobe University of Mercantile Marine, and 40 to Kyushu University. The list of doctor's dissertations filed by students at the end of their doctor's course contains a total of 15 studies, of which 1 was submitted to Tohoku University, 6 to the University of Tokyo, 4 to Tokyo Institute of Technology, 3 to Kyoto University, and 1 to Osaka University. The list of doctor's dissertations filed by researchers other than graduate school students contains 37 studies, of which 5 was submitted to Hokkaido University, 8 to the University of Tokyo, 3 to Tokyo Institute of Technology, 5 to Nagoya University, 5 to Kyoto University, 5 to Osaka University, and 6 to Kyushu University. (N.K.)

  15. FY 1991 Report on research and development of super heat pump energy accumulation system. Construction and operation of the prototype system (Researches on systematization); 1981 nendo super heat pump energy shuseki system kenkyu kaihatsu seika hokokusho. System shisaku unten kenkyu (system ka kenkyu)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1982-03-01

    This research and development program includes the conceptual designs of and simulation studies on the super heat pump energy accumulation systems, to realize 30,000 kW-class commercial-scale plant. The district air conditioning and hot water supply by the plant of the above size are studied for the domestic area, including houses, office buildings, commercial facilities, and accommodations. The results indicate that the system has both merits and demerits, and should be further investigated for improvement. The merits include reduced power consumption by the heat pump, because of its high efficiency, reduction in the running cost, and increased ratio of late-night power, and the demerits include increased power consumption by the pumps for the heat source, increased initial costs of the facilities, and increased space-related cost. The industrial plants studied for application of the super heat pump energy accumulation system are those for production of corn starch, distilled sake and diary products. The other items studied include analysis/evaluation of economic distance for carrying heat source water, and improvement of simulator functions. (NEDO)

  16. Výzkum pravěkého polokulturního sídliště v Kobeřicích (okr. Opava)

    Czech Academy of Sciences Publication Activity Database

    Juchelka, Jiří

    2010-01-01

    Roč. 2010, č. 51 (2010), s. 34-39. ISBN 978-83-85871-58-3. ISSN N Institutional research plan: CEZ:AV0Z80010507 Keywords : upper-silesian Lengyel culture group * Funnelbeaker culture * Lusatian culture Subject RIV: AC - Archeology, Anthropology, Ethnology

  17. Research report on human media; Human media no chosa kenkyu hokokusho

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1996-03-01

    The human multimedia technology corresponding to users` subjective characteristics was researched to realize information environment producing a sense of unity with human. The human media technology realizes a human sensitive information processing model and a common database easily acceptable sensitively by various users. This technology also should be able to fairly accept and transmit individual`s information and knowledge as multimedia information, and in addition it is required to supply a virtual space with presence. In fiscal 1995, the research committee studied the concrete developmental issue for integrating these advanced fundamental technologies, and as practical images planned the prototype systems such as human media interactive plant operation, supply of environment supporting personal intelligent activities, and virtual medical center. The research committee also discussed development of space mobile media to secure energy-saving and safety of automobiles, and an environment simulation system with participation of many people. 34 figs., 2 tabs.

  18. Studies on ternary silver sulfides; Fukugo gin ryukabutsu ni kansuru kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1997-10-31

    Some sulfides containing silver show high ion mobility based on movability of silver, whose application is expected. Studies have been carried out centrally on synthesis of new compounds of ternary silver sulfides by elucidating the relationship among their compositions, structures and properties by means of crystal chemical studies mainly on their phase relationship. A few new compounds have been synthesized, such as the ones having the argyrodite family compound structure including transition metals. The synthesizing process takes a kind of turbulent liquid state structure at elevated temperatures because of movability of silver, but silver is fixed at low temperatures in different sites between skeleton structures made by other atoms. These studies on phase transfer, structures, and silver movability have been based on X-ray diffraction, infrared and Raman spectroscopic measurements, NMR, measurements of electric and thermal characteristics. For the studies related to compositions and structures of ternary metal sulfides which take compound crystalline structure, a structure analyzing method based on multi-dimensional hyperspatial groups was used. This paper reports the summary of the studies in seven chapters, and dwells on the remaining problems and future prospects. 158 refs., 114 figs., 65 tabs.

  19. Study of odor inside cars; Kuruma no nioi ni kansuru kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Sato, S.; Ito, H.; Sakakibara, K.; Kaitani, K.; Hamada, C. [Toyota Central Research and Development Labs., Inc., Aichi (Japan); Matsuo, M. [Toyota Motor Corp., Aichi (Japan)

    1998-05-01

    This paper describes odor in automotive cabin. Odor of new cars is rapidly disappeared during the use. This is greatly due to the adaptation of olfaction. The generation of odor is also decreased. It was found that aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbons were rapidly disappeared. Decrements of oxygen containing and sulfur compounds were low. For amines, high boiling amines increased after three months. The odor component from crews was derived from the exhalation. Trimethylamine, methyl sulfide as well as iso-prene were detected. They could be derived from tobacco smoke, perfume and hair conditioner. Exhaust gas of diesel vehicle going ahead is one of unpleasant odors from the running atmosphere. A correlation coefficient 0.77 was obtained between the stimulation and aldehyde/ketone. A correlation equation was deduced using stimulation, discomfort degree and odor characteristics as object variables and using logarithms of trace analysis values as explanation variables. There are still a lot of unknown issues concerning combined odors. 9 refs., 9 figs., 1 tab.

  20. Study of the metamorphic belts and tectonics; Henseitai kenkyu to tectonics

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Watanabe, T. [Hokkaido University, Sapporo (Japan)

    1997-10-25

    Study of metamorphic belts and tectonics is introduced. Minerals supposedly originating in the transitional zone and the lower mantle, that is, inclusions in diamond in kimberlite, are deemed to carry information about the depth level of 670km and lower. The place of origin of peridotite, Alpe Arami of Switzerland, is again estimated at a level of 300km or deeper. In the tectonic cross section in this region, the oceanic crust is bent and folded, and such a structure enables the supposition that fragments off the transitional zone may be carried upward to the ground surface. This region is now being limelighted, with plume tectonics enjoying popularity. The split of Pangaea is related with the ascent of plume. In the eastern part of Australia, there are alkali rocks attributable to the plume that was supposedly active at the end of the Proterozoic. Zircon U-Pb dating by SHRIMP offers a new approach to the tectonics of metamorphic rocks, and is reinforcing the position of metamorphic petrology relative to the study of collision and split of continents. 64 refs., 10 figs.

  1. Study and simulation of human interface; Human interface kenkyu to simulation

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Nishitani, H. [Nara Institute of Science and Technology, Nara (Japan)

    1996-10-05

    Validation researches have begun about the interrelationship between systems and human beings using a virtual-reality plant environment. This article introduces some recent studies about the human interface in an operation control system in a virtual-reality environment. The evaluation of a system from the viewpoint of ease of use is called a usability test, to which a psychological protocol analysis is applied for finding out problematic points by carefully observing the operator actually operating the system. For instance, in a boiler plant simulator constructed for DCS training, the operator is given some tasks, such as the prediction as to how a certain event will develop, probing of the cause of anomalies, and execution of related operations. Video cameras are installed at various spots for the minute observation of facial expressions and behavior of the operator, and the operator`s recognition, thought, behavior, and utterances, expressed by the operator facially or verbally, are recorded and analyzed, and the results are utilized for system improvement and operator training. 3 refs., 2 figs.

  2. Achievement report on research and development in the Sunshine Project in fiscal 1976. (Electrotechnical Laboratory/Research and development cost); 1977 nendo kenkyu seika no gaiyo (kenkyu kaihatsuhi)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1977-07-01

    This paper describes achievements in research and development of new energy technologies (the Sunshine Project) in fiscal 1997 at the General Research Institute for Electronics Technologies. In spectral radiance measurement of solar beam, the measurement is continued in ultraviolet and visible ray zones to accumulate and analyze the data, and a near infrared zone measuring device is completed to start the measurement. In solar heat power generation, studies are made on models, devices and materials, and discussions are given on their systematization. Fundamental studies are also being made on solar cells to pursue economical and technological feasibility of solar beam power generation systems. Fundamental studies are being performed to realize thermal electron power generation systems utilizing solar furnaces. Studies are being carried out to elucidate fundamental conditions for a hydrogen manufacturing method using high-temperature pyrolysis of water at 1,000 degrees C or higher. High-temperature solid electrolyte fuel cell elements are fabricated on a trial basis to elucidate the technological problems therein. Energy systems are identified as the sum including the mutual relationship between societies and nature to study optimal systems. Energy conversion utilizing low temperature differential (especially in marine application) is being discussed. The paper also describes studies on super-conducting magnets for energy storage. (NEDO)

  3. Fiscal 1992 survey report. Survey of research trends in search for important research domains; 1992 nendo juten kenkyu ryoiki tansaku no tame no kenkyu doko chosa hokokusho

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1993-03-01

    For contribution of suggestions for establishing directions and concrete tasks for new industrial technology research and development projects, a survey is conducted about trends of industrial technology development and into research domains where importance will gather in the future, for which development trends are studied such as limiting, providing of intelligence, and advanced composition. In this report, domains expected to become important in the future are investigated. Important subjects are found in the domains of the space limiting (micromachining, atom/molecule manipulation, microanalysis, etc.), the time limiting (super-spacetime processing, quantum device, femtosecond technology, 4-dimensional device, etc.), biomimetics and providing of intelligence (intelligent material, neural network, genetic algorithm, artificial life, sensor fusion, intelligent robot, etc.). In addition to these, 'ultrastructure that learns from organisms,' 'intensive interaction system,' and 'nonlinearity/chaos technology' are proposed as promising fields of development. Since Japan is traditionally strong in hardware technologies relating to micromachining and substance/material processing, good results will be attained when the industrial, governmental, and academic circles exert endeavors. (NEDO)

  4. FY 1997 research and development of fusion domains. Part 2. Studies on bionic design; 1997 nendo seika hokokusho (yugo ryoiki kenkyu kaihatsu). 1. Bionic design no kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1998-03-01

    Studies were conducted on actuator function in bio materials, cells, structures, and living organisms, and on structuring a biological molecule machine. In the study on soft biological structures, biological compatibility of artificial glass bodies using ultra-polymeric PVA was found very high, raising expectation on feasibility of their practical use. Three-dimensional structure of glass bodies was made clear for the first time in the world. As a result of separating and purifying cells from a liver for the first time in the world, it was indicated that excellent proliferation performance and differentiation into cells are shown. With regard to hydroxyapatite in hard biological structure such as bones and teeth, single crystals were synthesized, and growth rate on the surface C was measured successfully. For molecular motors, studies are being performed on functions of twin-head structure in biological protein enzyme. In molecule structuring, studies were conducted on preparation of a hydrogenase LB membrane as an electric-hydrogen energy conversion element, and structuring of protein molecular structure using gene recombination. 69 refs., 37 figs., 8 tabs.

  5. Fiscal 1992 survey report. Survey of research trends in search for important research domains; 1992 nendo juten kenkyu ryoiki tansaku no tame no kenkyu doko chosa hokokusho

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1993-03-01

    For contribution of suggestions for establishing directions and concrete tasks for new industrial technology research and development projects, a survey is conducted about trends of industrial technology development and into research domains where importance will gather in the future, for which development trends are studied such as limiting, providing of intelligence, and advanced composition. In this report, domains expected to become important in the future are investigated. Important subjects are found in the domains of the space limiting (micromachining, atom/molecule manipulation, microanalysis, etc.), the time limiting (super-spacetime processing, quantum device, femtosecond technology, 4-dimensional device, etc.), biomimetics and providing of intelligence (intelligent material, neural network, genetic algorithm, artificial life, sensor fusion, intelligent robot, etc.). In addition to these, 'ultrastructure that learns from organisms,' 'intensive interaction system,' and 'nonlinearity/chaos technology' are proposed as promising fields of development. Since Japan is traditionally strong in hardware technologies relating to micromachining and substance/material processing, good results will be attained when the industrial, governmental, and academic circles exert endeavors. (NEDO)

  6. Research and development of photovoltaic power system. Research on surface passivation for high-efficiency silicon solar cells; Taiyoko hatsuden system no kenkyu kaihatsu. Hyomen passivation no kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Saito, T [Tokyo Univ. of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo (Japan). Faculty of Technology

    1994-12-01

    This paper reports the result obtained during fiscal 1994 on research on surface passivation of high-efficiency silicon solar cells. In research on carrier recombination on SiO2/doped silicon interface, measurements were carried out on minority carrier life with respect to p-type silicon substrates with which phosphorus with high and low concentrations are diffused uniformly on the surface and non-uniformly on the back and then oxidized. The measurements were performed for the purpose of evaluating the carrier recombination at p-n junctions. Effective life time of oxidized test samples increased longer than that of prior to the oxidization as a result of effect of surface passivation contributing remarkably. In research on reduction in carrier recombination on SiO2/Si interface by using H radical annealing, experiments were conducted by using a method that uses more active H-atoms. As a result, it was revealed that the reduction effect is recognized at as low temperature as 200{degree}C, and photo-bias effect is also noticeable. Other research activities included analytic research on minority carrier recombination on micro crystalline silicon/crystalline silicon interface, and experimental research on evaluation of minority carrier life of poly-crystalline silicon wafers. 6 figs.

  7. Investigation of the association between the GLC3A locus and normal tension glaucoma in Japanese patients by microsatellite analysis

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    M Kamio

    2009-01-01

    Full Text Available M Kamio1*, A Meguro1*, M Ota2, N Nomura1, K Kashiwagi3, F Mabuchi3, H Iijima3, K Kawase4, T Yamamoto4, M Nakamura5, A Negi5, T Sagara6, T Nishida6, M Inatani7, H Tanihara7, M Aihara8, M Araie8, T Fukuchi9, H Abe9, T Higashide10, K Sugiyama10, T Kanamoto11, Y Kiuchi11, A Iwase12, S Ohno13, H Inoko14, N Mizuki11Department of Ophthalmology, Yokohama City University School of Medicine, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan; 2Department of Legal Medicine, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Nagano, Japan; 3Department of Ophthalmology, University of Yamanashi, Faculty of Medicine, Yamanashi, Japan; 4Department of Ophthalmology, Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu, Japan; 5Department of Surgery, Division of Ophthalmology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Hyogo, Japan; 6Department of Ophthalmology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Ube, Yamaguchi, Japan; 7Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan; 8Department of Ophthalmology, University of Tokyo School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan; 9Division of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Graduated School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan; 10Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan; 11Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan; 12Department of Ophthalmology, Tajimi Municipal Hospital, Tajimi, Gifu, Japan; 13Department of Ophthalmology, Hokkaido University School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan; 14Department of Genetic Information, Division of Molecular Life Science, Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara, Kanagawa, Japan; *These authors contributed equally to this reportPurpose: To investigate whether the GLC3A locus harboring the CYP1B1 gene is associated with normal tension glaucoma

  8. Earthquake prediction in Japan and natural time analysis of seismicity

    Science.gov (United States)

    Uyeda, S.; Varotsos, P.

    2011-12-01

    M9 super-giant earthquake with huge tsunami devastated East Japan on 11 March, causing more than 20,000 casualties and serious damage of Fukushima nuclear plant. This earthquake was predicted neither short-term nor long-term. Seismologists were shocked because it was not even considered possible to happen at the East Japan subduction zone. However, it was not the only un-predicted earthquake. In fact, throughout several decades of the National Earthquake Prediction Project, not even a single earthquake was predicted. In reality, practically no effective research has been conducted for the most important short-term prediction. This happened because the Japanese National Project was devoted for construction of elaborate seismic networks, which was not the best way for short-term prediction. After the Kobe disaster, in order to parry the mounting criticism on their no success history, they defiantly changed their policy to "stop aiming at short-term prediction because it is impossible and concentrate resources on fundamental research", that meant to obtain "more funding for no prediction research". The public were and are not informed about this change. Obviously earthquake prediction would be possible only when reliable precursory phenomena are caught and we have insisted this would be done most likely through non-seismic means such as geochemical/hydrological and electromagnetic monitoring. Admittedly, the lack of convincing precursors for the M9 super-giant earthquake has adverse effect for us, although its epicenter was far out off shore of the range of operating monitoring systems. In this presentation, we show a new possibility of finding remarkable precursory signals, ironically, from ordinary seismological catalogs. In the frame of the new time domain termed natural time, an order parameter of seismicity, κ1, has been introduced. This is the variance of natural time kai weighted by normalised energy release at χ. In the case that Seismic Electric Signals

  9. Report on the achievements in fiscal 1999. Technology to use gas hydrate as a resource (Research and development for exploration, research and development on drilling technologies, investigative research on an environment influence evaluation method, and investigative research on a utilization system); 1999 nendo gas hydrate shigenka gijutsu sendo kenkyu kaihatsu seika hokokusho. Tansa nado ni kansuru kenkyu kaihatsu, kussaku gijutsu nado ni kansuru kenkyu kaihatsu, kankyo eikyo hyokaho no chosa kenkyu, riyo system ni kansuru chosa kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    2000-03-01

    The contents of the research and development performed in the current fiscal year are as follows: (1) research and development for exploration, (2) research and development on drilling technologies, (3) investigative research on an environment influence evaluation method, and (4) investigative research on a utilization system. In Item (1), element analysis data are used to study a method to estimate production environment of hydrate ore beds by using an inorganic ion analyzer and a trace amount element analyzer, the crust thermal flow measuring method is used to discuss a method to analyze the hydrate stability zones together with the data of sea area exploration records, and conceptual design is made on a resource potential evaluation system. In Item (2), experiments and analytical discussions are performed on decomposition control of the gas hydrate solid-liquid interface according to such conditions for the drilling fluid as temperatures and flow rates. Elucidation is given on the initial process of bubble generation for behavior of decomposed gas bubbles. Observation and elucidation are made on two-phase flow behavior of non-Newtonian fluid. In Item (3), conceptual design is carried out on a system to detect elements of shape change in each bed due to fluid movement in a gas hydrate bed and an upper bed. In Item (4), discussions are given on the optimizing conditions for generation and dissociation of gas hydrates. Investigation is made also on a possibility of the transportation and storage system. (NEDO)

  10. FY 2000 report on the results of the regional consortium R and D project - Regional new technology creation R and D. First year report. R and D of medicine toxicity assessment use hepatocyte chip; 2000 nendo chiiki consortium kenkyu kaihatsu jigyo. Chiiki consortium kenkyu kaihatsu / chiiki shingijutsu soshutsu kenkyu kaihatsu. Dokubutsu dokusei hyokayo kansaibo chip no kenkyu kaihatsu (dai 1 nendo) seika hokokusho

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    2001-03-01

    Judging that in the beginning of the toxicity test, the necessary information/knowledge are acquired not by using animal itself but only by using liver system (hepatocyte), the development was proceeded with of the hepatocyte chip substituting for the animal experiment. Studies were made in the following five fields: 1) design of functional matrices; 2) development of the pharmacological assessment technology; 3) development of cell sensing technology/biosensor fabrication; 4) study of a possibility and the limit of cell patterning technology; 5) survey of the market scale. In 1), studies were made of the establishment of the 3D culture method for hepatocyte and the construction of hepatocyte models for medicine assessment using pieces of liver. In the latter, by including capsule using the sugar introduced with galactose residue which is special sugar of hepatocyte to alginic acid and chitosan which are natural polymer and also hepatocyte isolated into sponge, aggregate was formed, and its use as a medicine assessment use liver model was tried to be made. (NEDO)

  11. FY 1991 Report on research and development of super heat pump energy accumulation system. Part 2. Construction and operation of the prototype system (researches on elementary techniques and construction and operation of the pilot system); Super heat pump energy shuseki system no kenkyu kaihatsu 1991 nendo seika hokokusho. 2. System shisaku unten kenkyu (yoso gijutsu no kenkyu / pilot system no shisaku unten kenkyu)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1982-05-01

    Summarized herein are R and D results of the researches on the chemical heat storage systems, plant simulation techniques and combined systems, and international technical exchanges, for R and D of the super heat pump energy accumulation system. For the high temperature heat storage type (utilizing ammonia complexes), the initial research targets are almost attained, as a result of the designs of a chemical heat storage unit having heat storage capacity of 1,000 kWh. For the high temperature heat storage type (utilizing hydration reactions), a 25 Mcal-scale pilot partial test unit is operated, to study applicability of the practical materials and other operation-related themes. For the low temperature heat storage type (utilizing hydration reactions by solute mixing), a pilot system is operated, to attain heat recovery of 75% or more, heat storage density of 30 kcal/kg or more, and output temperature of 7 degrees C. For the low temperature heat storage type (utilizing clathrates), the evaluation tests by a pilot plant produce heat recovery of 93.2% and heat storage density of 32.0 kcal/kg. In addition, the R and D efforts are directed to, e.g., researches on plant simulation techniques and combined systems. (NEDO)

  12. FY 1998 result report on development of superconductive power application technologies. Pt. 1. Research and development of superconductive wire materials / Research of a total system / Research and development of a freezing system / Demonstration tests; 1998 nendo chodendo denryoku oyo gijutsu kaihatsu. 1. Chodendo senzai no kenkyu kaihatsu, chodendo hatsudenki no kenkyu kaihatsu, total system no kenkyu, reito system no kenkyu kaihatsu, jissho shiken

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1999-03-01

    Superconductive technologies are introduced into electric power devices for attempts of achieving higher stabilization, density and efficiency, as well as size and weight reduction and improvement in performance of the devices. The project has been worked on since fiscal 1998 as part of the New Sunshine Project. Fiscal 1998 being the eleventh year has taken the following subjects as the research promotion policies: establishment of plans targeted at accomplishment of the goals of the project; adequate and reliable implementation of verification of technological assignments; and steady and efficient demonstration tests. Subsequent to the previous year during which site demonstration tests were completed on a low-speed responsive model machine, the site demonstration test has begun on the ultra high-speed responsive model machine as the final stage of the project. The ultra high-speed responsive model machine was coupled with a freezing system and a load synchronizing machine, and different kinds of test were carried out where good results were obtained. Researches were conducted on characteristics improvement and device element technologies aimed at achieving the practical application level by utilizing the respective features of AC metal-based wires and oxide-based wires, where sound results were obtained. Also in an improved freezing system, valuable data were attained as part of establishing the basic technologies for a superconductive power generation system. (NEDO)

  13. FY 1991 Report on research and development of super heat pump energy accumulation system. Part 1. Construction and operation of the prototype system (researches on elementary techniques and construction and operation of the pilot system); Super heat pump energy shuseki system no kenkyu kaiahtsu 1981 nendo seika hokokusho. 1. System shisaku unten kenkyu (yoso gijutsu no kenkyu / pilot system no shisaku unten kenkyu)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1982-05-01

    Summarized herein are R and D results of the super high performance heat pumps and elementary equipment, for R and D of the super heat pump energy accumulation system. For R and D of the super high performance compression heat pumps, the R and D efforts are directed to tests and evaluation of the pilot plant for the highly efficient type (for heating only), which produce the results of COP exceeding the target of 8; to tests of the anti-corrosion measures for the aluminum heat exchangers for the highly efficient type (for cooling and heating), by which the effective inhibitors are selected. The hybrid systems of the super high performance compression heat pumps and chemical heat storage are also studied in detail. The R and D efforts are directed to construction and operation of the hybrid heat pump system to collect underground heat for the high temperature type (utilizing low temperature heat source), which produce the results of confirming possibility of efficient heat collection for extended periods; and to improvement, construction on a trial basis and operation of the high-speed reciprocating compressors and steam superchargers for the high temperature type (utilizing high temperature heat source). For R and D of the elementary equipment, tests and evaluation are conducted for the EHD heat exchangers which use R123 as the new working fluid. (NEDO)

  14. Fiscal 2000 regional consortium research and development project - regional new technology creation research and development. Massive rapid identification of gene functions; 2000 nendo chiiki consortium kenkyu kaihatsu jigyo - chiiki shingijutsu soshutsu kenkyu kaihatsu seika hokokusho. Idenshi kino no tairyo jinsoku dotei ni kansuru kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    2001-03-01

    Efforts are exerted to develop a system for massive and rapid identification of unknown genes through the utilization of techniques based on the unusual membrane fusion characteristics of HVJ (hemagglutinating virus of Japan), which enables the introduction of genes efficiently and uniformly into cultured cells and living organs (development into a kit). Activities are conducted in the three fields of (1) the development of a method for introducing genes using an HVJ envelop vector, (2) a survey of kit marketing and cold storage facilities in the selling and distribution of the kit, and (3) a comprehensive survey. In the field of (1), studies are conducted for the establishment of methods for HVJ envelop vector production and refining, the establishment of an optimized method for encapsulating genes into the HVJ envelop vector, and the introduction of genes into cultured central neurons using the HVJ envelop vector system. A refining method has been established, which comprises the inoculation of HVJ into eggs, 4-day culture, egg cutting, liquid sampling (chorioallantoic liquid), inactivation (addition of alkylating agent), filtration, enrichment (ultrafiltration), and an anion exchange chromatogram. (NEDO)

  15. Fiscal 1996 report on the R and D result of industrial science and technology. R and D synergy ceramics (R and D on synergy ceramics); 1996 nendo sangyo kagaku gijutsu kenkyu kaihatsu seika hokokusho. Synergy ceramics no kenkyu kaihatsu (synergy ceramics no kenkyu kaihatsu)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1998-03-01

    This paper summarizes the general survey mainly conducted by FCRA (Fine Ceramics Research Association) in fiscal 1996, and the joint research results with some universities, from some R and D on synergy ceramics. Silicon nitride based ceramics expressed the same high thermal conductivity as metal by seed crystal addition, grain growth control and orientation control of sheet lamination. For its practical use, study was made on control factors of material, formation and sintering. Ca2Y2Si2O9 single crystal was prepared by float-zone method to determine its crystal structure. No volume change due to high-temperature phase transition as thermal expansion was found. In carbothermal reduction- nitridation of SiO2, addition of Si3N4 seed powder increased a reaction rate and formed uniform particles with an isotropic shape. An average particle size was dependent on the size and number of fine particles in seed powder. Addition of both Si3N4 and Fe compound could change a particle shape from a spherical grain to an elongated grain. A spherical Fe-Si metal grain was found on the tip of an elongated grain. 66 refs., 73 figs., 13 tabs.

  16. FY 1999 cooperation program - Comprehensive research cooperation in environmental technology. Research cooperation in toxic/hazardous waste management in the Laguna de Bay region; 1999 nendo kenkyu kyoryoku jigyo. Kankyo gijutsu sogo kenkyu kyoryoku - Raguna ko chiiki ni okeru yudoku yugai haikibutsu ni kansuru kenkyu kyoryoku

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    2000-03-01

    For the purpose of establishing preventive measures for water contamination in the Laguna de Bay region, the Philippines, where the water contamination is in progress and the eutrophication is feared, a research cooperation project was carried out on the water quality contamination monitoring technology (measuring method/analysis method/prediction method). In the survey of the state of generation of toxic/hazardous waste, the following were grasped based on the existing data: amount of use of toxic/hazardous substances in factories, state of generation of waste, situation of the processing/disposal, etc. In the detailed survey of the situation of pollution in the Laguna de Bay region, specimens of water quality and bottom material were collected from the lake and rivers thereinto, and qualitative/quantitative analysis of contaminants was made using atomic absorption spectrophotometer and gaschromatograph mass spectrometer. As to the evaluation of pollutant sources and control method, the paper conducted the introduction of measures generally taken against pollutant sources, study of a method to grasp the behavior of contaminants by the environmental assessment method for the closed water area, etc. The training was also conducted for researchers/engineers widely in charge of management of toxic/hazardous waste in the Philippines. (NEDO)

  17. Present Features and Sustainable Beef Production in Korea (SAFEA21 THIRD KOBE SYMPOSIUM ON AGRICULTURE, FOOD AND ENVIRONMENT IN ASIA : TOWARDS THE 21ST CETURY)

    OpenAIRE

    Yeo, Jung-sou

    2000-01-01

    Hanwoo (Korean Native Cattle) has been preserved for more than 4,000 years in the Korean peninsula as a unique genetic source and a symbol of wealth in Korean life. The major role of Hanwoo was to cultivate rice field for a long time until it was changed to produce meat after 1970's. However, high production cost and unstable prices are the major problems to be solved in Hanwoo industry in the opening beef marker era according to Uruguay agreements. But it is convinced that Hanwoo industry wi...

  18. Research and development of photovoltaic power system. Research on low temperature deposition of polycrystalline thin films; Taiyoko hatsuden system no kenkyu kaihatsu. Teion seimaku gijutsu no kenkyu kaihatsu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Sato, K [Tokyo Univ. of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo (Japan). Faculty of Technology

    1994-12-01

    This paper reports the result obtained during fiscal 1994 on research on a technology of low temperature deposition of polycrystalline thin films for solar cells. This research used ITO coated glass substrates, on which CdS was accumulated to a thickness of about 100 nm by using the CBD process, and over this deposition a CuInSe2 film was formed at 300{degree}C by using the ion cluster beam (ICB) process. The manufactured solar cells with a glass/ITO/CdS/CuInSe2/Au structure had an efficiency of 2%. In manufacturing a CuGaSe2 thin film by using the ICB process, effects of acceleration voltage relative to cluster beams and ionization current were investigated. It was found that the film morphology, the result of analysis by using X-ray diffraction, and the electric conductivity are sensitive to the ionization current. From these findings, an optimum film forming condition was derived. A CuGaSe2 thin film was manufactured by using the ICB process over a Cds thin film deposited by using the CDB process. Both of the surface morphology and X-ray diffraction patterns of the film did not show a large change, indicating a possibility of manufacturing cells with a reverse structure. Effects of heat treatment on CuInSe2 monocrystals were evaluated by using ESR and FTIR. 6 figs., 1 tab.

  19. FY 1993 Research and development of advanced ceramic gas turbines. Researches on social adaptability; 1993 nendo senshingata ceramic gas turbine no kenkyu kaihatsu seika hokokusho. Shakai tekigosei kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1994-05-01

    The ceramic gas turbines (CGT's) for, e.g., cogeneration and portable power generation systems are studied and evaluated for their environmental preservation, energy saving and economic characteristics. Types of utilization and market sizes are also studied for, e.g., portable power generation systems. The items studied include current status of cogeneration systems in USA, and recognition of cogeneration systems in Japan. The study results lead to the conclusions that the biaxial CGT for portable power generation systems is a promising substitute for diesel engines as the power source in the future, and 300kW class CGT's will have the markets of 170,000 units and potentially 450,000 units, because of their expected wide applicability. The studies on their economic, energy-saving and environmental load reduction effects indicate that one unit brings the economic effects totaling 616,000 yen, due to reduced fuel consumption and NOx abatement. They could reduce NOx emissions by 8,090 t/y for automobiles and 6,570 t/y for the others, when they fill the potential markets. (NEDO)

  20. Report on surveys and researches to excavate international joint researches related to industrial technologies; Sangyo gijutsu ni kansuru kokusai kyodo kenkyu hakkutsu no tame no chosa kenkyu hokokusho

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    2000-03-01

    Five themes were taken up for a project of the 'surveys and researches to excavate international joint researches related to industrial technologies'. Investigation groups were organized and dispatched for each theme toperform domestic and overseas surveys. Discussions were given on eachtheme for the possibilities of structuring international joint researches. The five themes are as follows: 'wearable information network related technologies', wherein technologies to micronize information devices have been advanced rapidly, and the technologies are entering the age from personalizing and mobilizing the information into the wearable computing; this theme is intended to develop systems to unify these technologies by means of international joint researches: 'surveys on using unutilized animal oils and fats as chemical raw materials', which are intended to make clear possibilities and problems in utilizing animal oils and fats as raw materials for the chemical industry that can substitute fossil resources: 'international joint researches on new glasses' and 'processes to manufacture semiconductors using glassy carbon' to develop glassy carbon having excellent chemical resistance substituting quartz: and 'international joint researches on the Russian project which places environment and energy in its center'. (NEDO)

  1. Research and development of system to utilize photovoltaic energy. Survey on the specific purpose modules; Taiyoko hatsuden riyo system no kenkyu kaihatsu. Taiyoto module ni kansuru chosa kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Tatsuta, M [New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization, Tokyo (Japan)

    1994-12-01

    This paper reports the survey results on the specific purpose modules for photovoltaic power generation in fiscal 1994. (1) On the feasibility survey on new application fields, it was clarified that photovoltaic power generation is applicable to extensive areas such as farmland, road, railway and public facility as latent demand sites. (2) On the optimum modules for various specific purposes, the structure, production method, cost estimation and issues of various modules were studied for desert, wasteland, coast, ocean, river, embankment, railway, road, mobile facility and arcade. (3) On the survey on new materials and material development, various conventional materials and materials promising for required performance were surveyed for every application. (4) On the survey on technology trends, the survey members participated in the first international photovoltaic energy conversion conference and the photovoltaic power generation workshop, while the members held the 1st-5th specific purpose module subcommittees. 1 tab.

  2. Mathematical structure of ocean container transport systems; Kaiyo container yuso system no suriteki kozo ni tsuite

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Shinkai, A [Kyushu University, Fukuoka (Japan). Faculty of Engineering; Chikushi, Y [Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corp., Tokyo (Japan)

    1997-10-01

    Mathematical structure of a vessel arrangement program was discussed in order to learn roles of container ships in ocean transport systems among China, NIES/ASEAN countries and Japan. Formulation is possible on a mathematical handling method for sailing route connection diagrams between ports, a transport network to indicate container movements, a service network to indicate sailing routes, and a network generalizing them. This paper describes an analysis made on the container transport system between Japan and China, taken as an example. Four ports were selected each from Japan and China, and the statistical database for fiscals 1996 and 1994 was utilized to set models for: (a) the liner network system with transshipment at the port of Shanghai and (b) the cruising route system going through the ports of Yokohama, Nagoya and Kobe. A hypothesis was set that a consortium (coordinated ship allocation) can be implemented ideally and completely. The transport network (a) is lower by 10% in total cost than the transport network (b), resulting in 1.6 times greater productivity. Actual service network is closer to the network (b), but the system can be utilized for discussing guidelines on vessel arrangement programs with which shipping companies pursue better management efficiency under a condition that the consortium can be formed. 10 refs., 6 figs., 2 tabs.

  3. Strontium-90 and cesium-137 in service water from June to December, 1981

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    1981-01-01

    Service water, 100 l each, was collected at an intake of a water treatment plant and at a tap after water was left running for five minutes. The carriers of strontium and cesium were added to water immediately after sampling, and the sample was vigorously stirred and filtered. Then it was passed through a cation exchange column at a rate of 80 ml/min. Strontium and cesium were eluted with hydrochloric acid from the cation exchange column, and separated. After the radiochemical separation, the mounted precipitates were counted for activity using low background beta counters normally for 60 min. Net sample counting rates were corrected for counter efficiency, recovery, self absorption and decay to obtain the content of strontium-90 and cesium-137 radioactivity per sample aliquot. From the results, concentrations of these nuclides in the original sample were calculated. The maximum values obtained were 0.29 pCi/l of Sr-90 in Kyoto in August, 1981, and 0.02 pCi/l of Cs-137 in Kyoto in August and in Inuyama in December, 1981, in case of source water. In case of tap water, they were 0.18 pCi/l of Sr-90 in Kobe in December, 1981, and 0.02 pCi/l of Cs-137 in Kyoto in August, 1981. (Kako, I.)

  4. Distribution of strong ground motion from uppermost crustal structure. Comparison with disaster from the Hyogo-ken Nanbu Earthquake; Yaya fukai chika kozo no henka ni yoru kyoshindo bunpu. Hyogoken nanbu jishin ni yoru higai bunpu tono hikaku

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Zhao, Z; Okubo, R [Kawasaki Geological Engineering Co. Ltd., Tokyo (Japan)

    1997-10-22

    It was intended to elucidate characteristics of distribution of damages caused by an earthquake which occurs directly below an urban area. Therefore, numerical simulation using the pseudo-spectral method was performed on characteristics of seismic wave propagation in non-homogenous media composed of rock beds and sediment beds, and of seismic wave amplitudes on ground surface. The simulation has utilized information on underground structures disclosed by using the latest physical exploration method. The underground structure model assumed a two-dimensional model hypothesizing presence of upper, middle and lower beds in the Osaka bed group on granite, using as reference the information on S-wave velocity underground structure revealed by the microtremor exploration method. With an objective to elucidate characteristics of distribution of collapse ratio in the area from 8-chome, Okamoto, Higashinada Ward, Kobe City to 2-chome of Sakanasaki Minamicho, as damages suffered from the Hyogo-ken Nanbu Earthquake, a simulation has been performed varying the structure model based on the results derived by the microtremor exploration method and the reflection method. As a result, it was shown that the characteristics of the maximum amplitude distribution of displacement of ground surface, velocity and acceleration agree well with those of the collapse ratio distribution, and that the simulation using the pseudo-spectral method is an effective means to analyze the ground surface collapse ratio distribution. 5 refs., 3 figs.

  5. Radon observation for earthquake prediction

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Wakita, Hiroshi [Tokyo Univ. (Japan)

    1998-12-31

    Systematic observation of groundwater radon for the purpose of earthquake prediction began in Japan in late 1973. Continuous observations are conducted at fixed stations using deep wells and springs. During the observation period, significant precursory changes including the 1978 Izu-Oshima-kinkai (M7.0) earthquake as well as numerous coseismic changes were observed. At the time of the 1995 Kobe (M7.2) earthquake, significant changes in chemical components, including radon dissolved in groundwater, were observed near the epicentral region. Precursory changes are presumably caused by permeability changes due to micro-fracturing in basement rock or migration of water from different sources during the preparation stage of earthquakes. Coseismic changes may be caused by seismic shaking and by changes in regional stress. Significant drops of radon concentration in groundwater have been observed after earthquakes at the KSM site. The occurrence of such drops appears to be time-dependent, and possibly reflects changes in the regional stress state of the observation area. The absence of radon drops seems to be correlated with periods of reduced regional seismic activity. Experience accumulated over the two past decades allows us to reach some conclusions: 1) changes in groundwater radon do occur prior to large earthquakes; 2) some sites are particularly sensitive to earthquake occurrence; and 3) the sensitivity changes over time. (author)

  6. On the Seismic Response of Protected and Unprotected Middle-Rise Steel Frames in Far-Field and Near-Field Areas

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Dora Foti

    2014-01-01

    Full Text Available Several steel moment-resisting framed buildings were seriously damaged during Northridge (1994; Kobe (1995; Kocaeli, Turkey (1999, earthquakes. Indeed, for all these cases, the earthquake source was located under the urban area and most victims were in near-field areas. In fact near-field ground motions show velocity and displacement peaks higher than far-field ones. Therefore, the importance of considering near-field ground motion effects in the seismic design of structures is clear. This study analyzes the seismic response of five-story steel moment-resisting frames subjected to Loma Prieta (1989 earthquake—Gilroy (far-field register and Santa Cruz (near-field register. The design of the frames verifies all the resistance and stability Eurocodes’ requirements and the first mode has been determined from previous shaking-table tests. In the frames two diagonal braces are installed in different positions. Therefore, ten cases with different periods are considered. Also, friction dampers are installed in substitution of the braces. The behaviour of the braced models under the far-field and the near-field records is analysed. The responses of the aforementioned frames equipped with friction dampers and subjected to the same ground motions are discussed. The maximum response of the examined model structures with and without passive dampers is analysed in terms of damage indices, acceleration amplification, base shear, and interstory drifts.

  7. Development of realtime disaster mitigation system for urban gas supply network

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Shimizu, Y.; Koganemaru, K.; Nakayama, W. [Technology Research Inst., Tokyo Gas Co. Ltd., Tokyo (Japan); Yamazaki, F. [Chiba University, Chiba (Japan); Isoyama, R.; Ishida, E. [Japan Engineering Consultants Co. Ltd., Tokyo (Japan)

    2004-07-01

    In response to the Kobe earthquake in 1995, efforts were initiated to develop a real-time system to mitigate earthquake-induced damages in gas supply networks which aimed at collecting information quickly and, if necessary, carrying out emergency measures. A new compact seismograph was recently developed, entitled New SI Sensor (SI). This device houses an electronic circuit which determines the SI value more precisely, detects the onset of liquefaction, and transmits the whole time history of seismic acceleration to head quarters. Consequently, a new safety system called SUPer-dense REaltime Monitoring of Earthquake (SUPREME) was developed which makes use of 3,800 new SI sensors. This paper introduces the structure of this new system. The remote shut-off using SUPREME results in quick gas supply shut-off and effectively reduce the risk of gas leakage during earthquakes. With enhanced use of geographic information systems, SUPREME can also conduct damage assessment for gas pipelines. To estimate the distribution of SI values and liquefied depth more precisely, digital map, geological map, topographical map and borehole logging data of about 60,000 sites were collected and compiled. Site amplification factors for SI values were estimated at the boring points. Then, spatial distribution of the site amplification factor was estimated based on weighted average of the amplification factors of surrounding boring points and the geological and topographical maps. 9 refs., 2 tabs., 14 figs.

  8. The Influence of Lifestyle on the Incidence of Dental Caries among 3-Year-Old Japanese Children

    Science.gov (United States)

    Watanabe, Masako; Wang, Da-Hong; Ijichi, Akihiro; Shirai, Chika; Zou, Yu; Kubo, Masayuki; Takemoto, Kei; Masatomi, Chie; Ogino, Keiki

    2014-01-01

    The present cohort study examined how lifestyle, household environment, and caries activity test score of Japanese children at age 1.5 years affected their dental caries incidence at age 3. Inclusion criteria were 1.5-year-old children with no dental caries. Dental examinations were performed for 33,655 children who participated in routine dental examinations at 1.5 years of age, and the exam was repeated approximately 21 months later (at age 3) at the Kobe City Public Health Center in Japan. After excluding 622 children who had caries at age 1.5 and 1831 children with missing lifestyle and household environment data in the questionnaires, the final data analysis was performed on a total of 31,202 children (16,052 boys, 15,150 girls).The multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated a strong association of the consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages/snacks, less frequent tooth brushing by the parents, lack of fluoride varnish, family history of smoking, with the risk of developing dental caries. A child’s late bedtime is also one of the major risk factors for dental caries development. Further investigation is needed to examine whether the short duration or the irregularity of the sleep-wake cycle would affect early childhood oral health and whether there is a relationship between late bedtime and late night snack intake. PMID:25489996

  9. Current status of and problems in ice heat storage systems contributing to improving load rate. Air conditioning system utilizing ice heat storage and building frame storage (Takenaka Corporation); Fukaritsu kaizen ni kokensuru kori chikunetsu system no genjo to kadai. Kori chikunetsu to kutai chikunetsu wo riyoshita kucho system

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Inoue, Y.; Yoshitake, Y. [Takenaka Corp., Osaka (Japan)

    1998-02-01

    Development was made on a new air conditioning system, `building frame heat storage air conditioning system`, which combines an ice heat storage system with a building frame heat storage. With the building frame heat storage system, a damper is installed on an indoor device to blow cold air from the air conditioner onto slabs on the upper floor during nighttime power generating period. Heat is stored in beams, pillars and walls, and the shell absorbs and dissipates heat during daytime. Since general office buildings consume primary energy at 22.8% for heat source and 26.9% for transportation, which is greater, a natural coolant circulation type air conditioning system was developed as an air conditioning system for the secondary side. This made the building frame heat regeneration possible for the first time. With regard to heat storage quantity and heat dissipation quantity, the quantity of heat which can be stored during nighttime (10 hours) and dissipated during air conditioning using period in daytime (10 hours) is 80% of the stored heat quantity. This system was installed in a building in Kobe City. As a result of the measurement, it was found that indoor heat load reduction rate as a result of using the building frame heat storage was 24% or more in summer and 80% or more in winter. 7 figs., 2 tabs.

  10. Radon anomalies prior to earthquakes (2). Atmospheric radon anomaly observed before the Hyogoken-Nanbu earthquake

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Ishikawa, Tetsuo; Tokonami, Shinji; Yasuoka, Yumi; Shinogi, Masaki; Nagahama, Hiroyuki; Omori, Yasutaka; Kawada, Yusuke

    2008-01-01

    Before the 1995 Hyogoken-Nanbu earthquake, various geochemical precursors were observed in the aftershock area: chloride ion concentration, groundwater discharge rate, groundwater radon concentration and so on. Kobe Pharmaceutical University (KPU) is located about 25 km northeast from the epicenter and within the aftershock area. Atmospheric radon concentration had been continuously measured from 1984 at KPU, using a flow-type ionization chamber. The radon concentration data were analyzed using the smoothed residual values which represent the daily minimum of radon concentration with the exclusion of normalized seasonal variation. The radon concentration (smoothed residual values) demonstrated an upward trend about two months before the Hyogoken-Nanbu earthquake. The trend can be well fitted to a log-periodic model related to earthquake fault dynamics. As a result of model fitting, a critical point was calculated to be between 13 and 27 January 1995, which was in good agreement with the occurrence date of earthquake (17 January 1995). The mechanism of radon anomaly before earthquakes is not fully understood. However, it might be possible to detect atmospheric radon anomaly as a precursor before a large earthquake, if (1) the measurement is conducted near the earthquake fault, (2) the monitoring station is located on granite (radon-rich) areas, and (3) the measurement is conducted for more than several years before the earthquake to obtain background data. (author)

  11. Deep sedimentary structure model beneath the Osaka plain; Osaka heiya ni okeru shinbu chika kozo no model ka

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Miyakoshi, K; Kagawa, T; Echigo, T [Osaka Soil Test, Osaka (Japan)

    1997-05-27

    Restructuring was carried out on a sedimentary basin structure model of the Osaka plain including Osaka Bay by using newly obtained underground structural data. After the Hygoken-nanbu Earthquake of 1995, a large number of underground structure investigations have been performed in Osaka Bay and urban areas of Kobe and Osaka. However, very few surveys have been done in areas peripheral to Osaka Prefecture, such as the Ikoma area. Therefore, an attempt has been made to increase the number of measuring points to acquire underground structural data of these areas. Estimation of basic rock depths has utilized the dominant cycles in H/V spectra obtained from micro vibration survey, and good correlation of the base rock depths derived by a refraction exploration and a deep-bed boring investigation. With regard to bed division and P- and S- wave velocities in sedimentary beds in the Osaka sedimentary basin, an underground structure model was prepared, which was divided into four beds according to the refraction exploration and the micro vibration investigation. Data obtained by using this model agreed well with depth data acquired from physical exploration and other types of investigations. However, no good agreement was recognized in the data for such areas where the basic depth changes abruptly as the Rokko fault and the Osaka bay fault. 6 refs., 8 figs., 2 tabs.

  12. [How do hospital clinical laboratories and laboratory testing companies cooperate and build reciprocal relations?].

    Science.gov (United States)

    Kawano, Seiji

    2014-12-01

    As the 2nd Joint Symposium of the Japanese Society of Laboratory Medicine and the Japanese Association of Laboratory Pathologists, the symposium on clinical test out-sourcing and branch laboratories was held at the 60th General Meeting of the Japanese Society of Laboratory Medicine on November 2nd, 2013 in Kobe. For the symposium, we conducted a questionnaire survey on the usage of clinical test out-sourcing and the introduction of branch laboratories to clinical laboratories of Japanese university hospitals, both private and public, between July 25th and August 20th, 2013. Seventy-two hospitals responded to the questionnaire survey, consisting of 41 public medical school hospitals and 31 private ones. According to the survey, the selection of each clinical test for out-sourcing was mainly determined by the capacities of hospital clinical laboratories and their equipment, as well as the profitability of each test. The main concerns of clinical laboratory members of university hospitals involved the continuity of measurement principles, traceability, and standardization of reference values for each test. They strongly requested the interchangeability and computerization of test data between laboratory testing companies. A branch laboratory was introduced to six hospitals, all of which were private medical college hospitals, out of 72 university hospitals, and eight of the other hospitals were open to its introduction. The merits and demerits of introducing a branch laboratory were also discussed. (Review).

  13. The Influence of Lifestyle on the Incidence of Dental Caries among 3-Year-Old Japanese Children

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Masako Watanabe

    2014-12-01

    Full Text Available The present cohort study examined how lifestyle, household environment, and caries activity test score of Japanese children at age 1.5 years affected their dental caries incidence at age 3. Inclusion criteria were 1.5-year-old children with no dental caries. Dental examinations were performed for 33,655 children who participated in routine dental examinations at 1.5 years of age, and the exam was repeated approximately 21 months later (at age 3 at the Kobe City Public Health Center in Japan. After excluding 622 children who had caries at age 1.5 and 1831 children with missing lifestyle and household environment data in the questionnaires, the final data analysis was performed on a total of 31,202 children (16,052 boys, 15,150 girls.The multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated a strong association of the consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages/snacks, less frequent tooth brushing by the parents, lack of fluoride varnish, family history of smoking, with the risk of developing dental caries. A child’s late bedtime is also one of the major risk factors for dental caries development. Further investigation is needed to examine whether the short duration or the irregularity of the sleep-wake cycle would affect early childhood oral health and whether there is a relationship between late bedtime and late night snack intake.

  14. Study on afterburner of aircraft engine. Koku engine yo afterburner no kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kashiwagi, T [Ishikawajima-Harima Heavy Industries, Co. Ltd., Tokyo (Japan)

    1991-03-01

    This paper explains concepts of aircraft engine afterburner, and describes history of afterburner study, and describe the result of major research items. An afterburner is located down stream of a fan, compressor, burner, and turbine in a jet engine. Its basic principle is that fuel is injected into turbine exhaust and fan air flows from an fuel injector, ignited by a spark plug using oxygen remaining in the exhaust gas flow, burned and flame-held by a flame stabilizer. The combustion gas of high temperature (1,700 to 1,800 {degree}c) thus generated is jetted out from an exhaust nozzle to increase the thrust. The prototype afterburner is featured by adoption of a mixed type fuel injection system that provides wide stable combustion range, and flame stabilizer with a scoop aimed at improving the ignition performance and combustion efficiency. A confirmation test verified smooth ignition and wide air to fuel ratio for stabilized combustion. 4 refs., 16 figs.

  15. Papers given new idea to me; Kenkyu no aidea to natta bunken

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Hoshino, Kazuhiro [Toyama University, Toyama (Japan)

    1999-04-05

    University entrance into school, book called a Bible of chemical engineering and chemical engineering mainly read literature and book, which seemed to be completely the no relation. It may be able to say one in the inside. The chemical industry is to attempt, even if it is the field where there is completely no relation research theme self-necessity may. It may fail. The new idea festers there. It does be not done either that it will be possible to be useful in the future. I want to make efforts in order to meet with the paper, which is connected with the in future new theme. (NEDO)

  16. Research on harmonized molecular materials; Bunshi kyocho zairyo ni kansuru chosa kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1996-03-01

    Harmonized molecular materials (HMM) were researched to create functional materials adaptable to needs such as environmental harmony and high-efficient conversion in post-industrial society and aging society. Superior mechanisms function efficiently in organisms for perception, transmission and processing of information, and transport and conversion of substances. These functions are caused by harmonization between organic molecules, or organic molecule and metal or inorganic substance. HMM is a key substance to realize these functions similar to those of organisms artificially. It is the purpose of this research to develop HMMs, reform production process by innovating separation and conversion technologies, and finally realize molecular chemical plants. This research also develops high-efficient devices to contribute to the information society, and progresses the industry of bio-functional materials such as high-sensitive bio-sensor. The functions, applications and creation technologies of three kinds of HMM such as assembly, mesophase and microporous materials were researched in fiscal 1995. 956 refs., 128 figs., 13 tabs.

  17. Leading research of smart structural system; Chiteki kozo system no sendo kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1996-03-01

    The technology trend was surveyed to clarify the themes of smart structural system towards its R and D. The smart structural system is a structural system which incorporates functions of perception, judgment and learning by integrating functions, structures and information, to ensure the structural soundness at real time and control the active-adaptive of shapes. The final goal of it is to make materials and structures similar to organic systems. It has a self-repair function which can detect the generation and propagation of cracks and prevent the destruction positively with conducting self-diagnosis. High performance, high efficiency and energy saving are expected by combining the conversion of design concept into destruction control and the regulation of vibration, noise and shape. Especially, it is effective for the safety of aerospace systems, earthquake disaster measures, and extension of machine life. This report describes the background, purpose, R and D activities in Japan and foreign countries, and basic development themes. In addition, it arranges the needs of various industrial fields systematically, and proposes a concrete concept. Furthermore, the effects expected by the application of smart structural systems and the outline of international technical cooperation are presented. 110 refs., 164 figs., 19 tabs.

  18. Investigational research on eco-smart engines; Eco-smart engine no chosa kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1998-03-01

    The paper investigated the trend of research on eco-smart engines into which optimization function of engine performance, high environmental-adaptability, etc. are integrated. The investigation was made in Japan and abroad on technologies of combustion, structure/material, control, design/analysis, systematization, etc. In case of Japan, specifications were established for three types of engines, subsonic, supersonic and hypersonic aircraft, and the research subjects to fulfil the specifications were extracted. In case of the U.S. and Europe, the survey was made of combustion, materials, noise, design concept, control, etc. Important subjects are selected in priority order. Namely, for the enhancement of efficiency, the following were taken up: three-dimensional fiber-reinforced large-size light-weight structure application technology, heat-resistant advanced-material structure damage-tolerant design technology, pseudo-vesicular structure transpiration cooling technology, etc. For the reduction of NOx emission, the paper took up technologies of environmentally optimization combustion, AI combustion control, and non-cooling combustor liner application. For the noise reduction, technologies of new inclination hole orientation noise absorbing structure material application, super noise control, and innovative CFD utilization low noise aerodynamics. Moreover, the results of fiscal 1997 were outlined to indicate the research in the next fiscal year. 14 figs., 10 tabs.

  19. NEDO Forum 2000. Industrial technology development session; Sangyo gijutsu kenkyu kaihatsu session

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    2000-09-01

    This session presented the following subjects: I. IT innovation, II. Bio-seminar, III. Nano-technology, IV. Machine technology seminar, and V. 'Development subsidy project to put industrial technologies into practical use'. The theme in I relates to (1) influence of IT innovation on the society, (2) the theory of semiconductor evolution, (3) the theory of liquid crystal evolution, and (4) the theory of disk evolution. The theme II searches (1) how far have bio-technologies come?, (2) search of human evolution from genes, (3) can human being live up to 150 years by bio-technologies?, and (4) what is a DNA array (chip)?. The theme III covers (1) product innovation in polymers (new polymeric materials brought about by polymer nano-technology, taking polyolefin as an example), and (2) creation of ceramics materials by using nano-technologies. The theme IV relates to (1) ITS changes the car society into this way, (2) the current status and outlook on research and development of micro-machine technologies, and (3) the futuristic society and new industries opened by the Humanoid project. The theme V describes (1) practical application of ultra-small medical device production technologies, (2) development of next generation semiconductor manufacturing resists, (3) development for practical application of an optical brain function imaging device, and (4) development for practical application of new screening technologies toward creation of medicines using genome. (NEDO)

  20. Leading research report for fiscal 1998. Research and study of 3-dimensional cell structure module engineering; 1998 nendo sendo chosa kenkyu hokokusho. Sanjigen saibo soshiki module kogaku chosa kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1999-03-01

    For the formation of cellular tissues to replace bionic tissues, researches were conducted about technologies of forming bionic tissue modules by culturing various kinds of cells. As for the materials and methods for constructing cellular tissues, researches were conducted about the trends of research and development of 3-dimensional tissue culturing matrices and materials for micromanipulation. As for the development of technologies for the functionalization of 3-dimensionally structured cells, research and study were conducted about the technology of 3-dimensional cell structure organization through application of physical stimulation, the biochemical technology of differentiation inducing, and the differentiation inducing technology for hetero tissue culturing. As for the development of technologies for evaluation using 3-dimensionally structured cells, light CT (computer tomography), analysis and evaluation using spectroscopy and the like, feasibility of the biochemical analysis of the cell state using biosensors, technologies for measuring the secretion of carcinogenic and toxic substances, etc., were studied. In addition, the development of organic models to replace test animals, industrial evolution of 3-dimensional tissue module engineering, etc., were investigated. (NEDO)

  1. Leading research and study report for fiscal 1998. Report on leading research and study on intelligent fiber; 1998 nendo sendo chosa kenkyu hokokusho. Inteligent fiber sendo chosa kenkyu hokokusho

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1999-03-01

    Researches were conducted with a view to organizing projects for developing intelligent fibers, equipped with environmental friendliness and amenity without being deprived of their original properties as structural and clothing materials, the ultimate goal of the effort being the creation of harbingers of next-generation fibers which would contribute to the advance of industries related to environments, medicine and welfare, and information. What were learned from fiscal 1998 researches are mentioned below. The strength that the general-purpose fibers currently in use exhibit is so small as to be but several percent of what is theoretically predicted for them. Demand will increase a great deal if the actual strength is doubled, for which new technologies have to be developed including those involving super-fiber texture control. For providing the fiber with such functions as environment-friendliness, amenity, etc., it is necessary to develop phasal structure control technologies with regard to fiber morphology, surface texture, etc. For success in practical application in the future of such super-fiber materials, each specimen needs to be manufactured in the order of kilogram by way of trial. Moreover, fiber evaluation techniques have to be developed in the three domains of software, hardware, and interface. (NEDO)

  2. Achievement report for fiscal 1998. Leading research and development of MGC-built superhigh-efficiency turbine system technology; 1998 nendo MGC chokokoritsu turbine system gijutsu sendo kenkyu kaihatsu kenkyu seika

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1999-03-01

    To further enhance energy efficiency by improving on the gas turbine system, it is necessary, first of all, to develop superhigh-temperature materials to allow the system to operate at higher temperatures. Described in this report are studies on the application of MGC (melt-growth composite) materials which retain strength and plastic deformation capability even at high temperatures. Various compositions are explored for improvement on fracture toughness and thermal shock resistance. The Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}/YAG system is investigated for the study of relations between microstructural control and fracture toughness. Literature on the development of nanocomposites is surveyed, and a preliminary experiment is discussed for improvement on purity by zone melting crystallization. In a study for an advanced manufacture of larger crystals, technologies of crystal growth condition setting and optimization, quality stabilization, productivity improvement, and crystal size enlargement are taken up. Casting and machining technologies are studied to enable crystals to assume complicated shapes. For the purpose of elucidating the mechanism of the occurrence of properties proper to high temperatures, a study is made on the evaluation of mechanical and physical properties and on the mechanism and control of crystal growth. Also studied are systems (gas turbine cycle, combustor, etc.) to which MGC materials may be applied. (NEDO)

  3. FY 1997 report on the survey of fundamental technologies in the field of brain neuro-biotechnology; 1997 nendo Sendo kenkyu hokokusho (noshinkei saibo kogaku kiban gijutsu no chosa kenkyu)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1998-03-01

    In Japan with its rapidly aging society, fundamental technologies are required for the development of artificial nerves substituting for or supporting damaged ones, and ultimately constituting artificial neurons based on the knowledge of the brain functions at the molecular and cellular levels. This study defines the fundamental technologies which would be required for the development in the area, and further, evaluates the potential of the technologies to develop the novel industry. The brain function is closely related to the activity in neuronal circuits. In order to repair injured nerves and to develop the advanced technologies of electronics for helping impaired neuronal functions, the most important and urgent is to understand how to work the neuronal circuit system in the brain. Based on these viewpoints, new methodological approaches would make it possible to relieve neural impairment in the sensory input system and the motor system by the use of electronic circuits. They also would improve rehabilitation after injury, and treat neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson`s disease. These advances surely create the new types of industry seeds in near future. 77 refs., 29 figs., 2 tabs.

  4. Research and development of basic technologies for the next generation industries. Summary of research achievements in fiscal 1992 (Research and development of superconductor materials and superconductor elements); Jisedai sangyo kiban gijutsu kenkyu kaihatsu 1992 nendo no kenkyu seika no gaiyo. Chodendo zairyo chodendo soshi no kenkyu kaihatsu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1993-05-01

    With an objective to establish basic technologies, research and development has been carried out to make it possible to utilize high-temperature superconductor materials in terms of engineering in the fields of electronics and electric power. In the research on superconductor materials in fiscal 1992, it was discovered from measurements of temperature change in polarization dependent EXAFS in thin YBCO film grown on an MgO substrate that relative displacement in copper atoms in CuO{sub 2} plane and peak oxygen, and relative displacement in copper atoms on a primary chain and peak oxygen show apparent increase at the critical superconduction temperature. It was verified that this phenomenon does not occur in materials that do not show superconduction. In the research and development of superconductor elements, full-swing research has begun toward establishing the following technologies: process technologies for a substrate that meets requirement of surface flatness required in electronic elements, a superconductor thin film that assures uniformity in interface composition and the laminated thin film tunnel junction that combines the superconductor thin film, an inter-layer insulation film, and ultra-fine processing to suppress deterioration, and a tunnel element technology as a technology to put the above technologies together. (NEDO)

  5. Report on achievements in fiscal 1998. Research and development of a technology to promote non-ferrous metal based material recycling. (Research on component technologies and a total system); 1998 nendo hitetsu kinzokukei sozai recycle sokushin gijutsu seika hokokusho. Kenkyu kaihatsu yoso gijutsu kenkyu, total system kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1999-03-01

    This project is intended to research and develop a high level aluminum recycling technology to realize the 'product to product' philosophy to return different aluminum scraps into the original materials, while attempting to develop and unify the aluminum recycling technologies and promote utilization of LNG. This fiscal year has studied the following methods as the component technology research: (1) an inclusion removing method, (2) a crystal sorting method, (3) a vacuum distillation method, and (4) a semi-melting method. The studies on (1), (2) and (3) were performed on identification of basic data and systematization to determine the life and facility specifications, with the full-swing demonstration tests being waited to start in fiscal 1999. The research and development on the item (4) was determined technologically feasible although additional discussions are required on the engineering aspect for practical application. The component technology study thereon will be finished with the current fiscal year. For the demonstration tests among the studies on total system technologies, the crystal sorting method and the vacuum distillation method had the achievements obtained in the research of the component technologies reflected directly to the facility design and fabrication. There has been no large-scale facility fabrication for the inclusion removing method and effective utilization of ash remaining in dross, and the researches were performed as scheduled. (NEDO)

  6. Achievement report for fiscal 1997 on the research and development to lead to gas hydrate using technology. Research and development on exploration, research and development on drilling technologies, survey and research on a method to evaluate environmental impact, and survey and research on a utilization system; 1997 nendo gas haidoreto shigenka gijutsu sendo kenkyu kaihatsu seika hokokusho. Tansanado ni kansuru kenkyu kaihatsu, kussaku gijutsu ni kansuru kenkyu kaihatsu, kankyo eikyo hyokaho no chosa kenkyu, riyo system ni kansuru chosa kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1998-09-01

    The present study is intended to analyze comprehensively geophysical, geological and geochemical data, and establish a technology to estimate distribution of gas hydrate (GH) in sea areas around Japan. It is also intended to develop a high-accuracy resource amount calculating method utilizing the result of excavation of GH planned in the future. In order to achieve these goals, the following activities are performed: (1) study on a method to estimate production environment of GH deposits, (2) development of a method to estimate GH stability areas by using the crust thermal flow measuring method, and (3) study on estimation of GH distribution and wide-area potential. For the study (1), an inorganic element analyzer was introduced, and calibration of devices was performed in fiscal 1997. A survey was carried out on literatures related to distribution of inorganic elements and process of GH deposit production. In the study (2), design and trial fabrication were executed on a high-accuracy crust thermal flow measuring device, capable of long-term continuous observation. In the study (3), re-processing focusing on BSR was implemented by using the latest computer and analysis software on the data in which BSR has been confirmed in the surveys done in the past on sea areas around Japan. (NEDO)

  7. FY 2000 research and development of fundamental technologies for AC superconducting power devices. R and D of fundamental technologies for superconducting power cables and faults current limiters, R and D of superconducting magnets for power applications, and study on the total systems and related subjects; 2000 nendo koryu chodendo denryoku kiki kiban gijutsu kenkyu kaihatsu seika hokokusho. Chodendo soden cable kiban gijutsu no kenkyu kaihatsu, chodendo genryuki kiban gijutsu no kenkyu kaihatsu, denryokuyo chodendo magnet no kenkyu kaihatsu, total system nado no kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    2001-03-01

    The project for research and development of fundamental technologies for AC superconducting power devices has been started, and the FY 2000 results are reported. The R and D of fundamental technologies for superconducting power cables include grasping the mechanical characteristics associated with integration necessary for fabrication of large current capacity and long cables; development of barrier cable materials by various methods; and development of short insulated tubes as cooling technology for long superconducting cables, and grasping its thermal/mechanical characteristics. The R and D of faults current limiters include introduction of the unit for superconducting film fabrication, determination of the structures and layouts for large currents, and improvement of performance of each device for high voltages. R and D of superconducting magnets for power applications include grasping the fundamental characteristics of insulation at cryogenic temperature, completion of the insulation designs for high voltage/current lead bushing, and development of prototype sub-cooled nitrogen cooling unit for cooling each AC power device. Study on the total systems and related subjects include analysis for stabilization of the group model systems, to confirm improved voltage stability when the superconducting cable is in service. (NEDO)

  8. Report `A field test project for the disaster prevention type photovoltaic power generation (Kobe city, Hyogo prefecture)`; `Bosaigata taiyoko hatsuden field test jigyo (Hyogoken Kobeshi)` hokokusho

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1996-09-12

    An experiment was conducted on the introduction of the disaster prevention type photovoltaic power system provided with storage batteries to public facilities, etc., considering not only the use of new energy from the environmental aspect, but the emergency use. In fiscal 1995, 5kW-output photovoltaic power systems were installed on the rooftop of Hiyodori and Takamaru regional welfare centers and a 30kW photovoltaic power system on the rooftop of the Hyogo Ward Office. Demonstrative tests of these systems started for collection of various data. Now that the systems were installed at the regional welfare center managed mostly by regional citizens and the ward office which is an administrative office familiar with regional residents, the understanding of and familiarity with the photovoltaic power system were obtained from regional residents, and also people were enlightened on the use of solar energy in such a point as economization of power rates using the interconnected power system. Further, for life supports, it was made possible to secure minimum electric power in emergency and to secure functions of disaster prevention spots. 3 figs.

  9. Feasibility of sequential adjuvant chemotherapy with a 3-month oxaliplatin-based regimen followed by 3 months of capecitabine in patients with stage III and high-risk stage II colorectal cancer: JSWOG-C2 study

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Tsuruta A

    2016-11-01

    Full Text Available Atsushi Tsuruta,1,* Kazuki Yamashita,2,* Hiroaki Tanioka,3 Akihito Tsuji,4,5 Michio Inukai,6 Toshiki Yamakawa,7 Tomoki Yamatsuji,8 Masanori Yoshimitsu,9 Kazuhiro Toyota,10 Taketoshi Yamano,11 Takeshi Nagasaka,12 Masazumi Okajima13 On behalf of the Japan Southwest Oncology Group (JSWOG 1Department of Digestive Surgery, Kawasaki Medical School Hospital, 2Department of Surgery, 3Department of Medical Oncology, Okayama Rosai Hospital, Okayama, 4Department of Medical Oncology, Kobe City Medical Center General Hospital, Kobe, 5Department of Clinical Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University Hospital, Kagawa, 6Department of Medicine, Okayama Saiseikai General Hospital, Okayama, 7Department of Surgery, Kagawa Prefectural Central Hospital, Takamatsu, 8Department of General Surgery, Kawasaki Medical School, Okayama, 9Department of Surgery, Hiroshima City Asa Hospital, Hiroshima, 10Department of Surgery, National Hospital Organization Higashihirosima Medical Center, Higashihiroshima, 11Department of Surgery, Kurashiki Medical Center, 12Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, 13Department of Surgery, Hiroshima City Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan *These authors contributed equally to this work Background: Six months of oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy is the standard adjuvant chemotherapy for completely resected stage III colorectal cancer (CRC. Also, patients with stage II CRC who are considered to be at high risk of disease recurrence often receive the same adjuvant chemotherapy treatment. We prospectively investigated the extent and degree of neuropathy suffered by stage III and high-risk stage II resectable CRC patients who underwent sequential approach involving 3 months of an oxaliplatin-based regimen followed by 3 months of capecitabine. Patients and methods: Patients with completely resected stage III and high-risk stage II CRC aged ≥20 years were

  10. Fiscal 1996 report on the results of the study under a consignment from NEDO of environmental friendly type metal base-materials recycling utilization basic technology and element/overall process. For public; 1996 nendo chikyu kankyo sangyo gijutsu kenkyu kaihatsu jigyo Shin Energy Sangyo Gijutsu Sogo Kaihatsu Kiko kyodo kenkyu itaku. Kankyo chowagata kinzokukei sozai kaisei riyo kiban gijutsu no kenkyu: yoso sogo process kenkyu seika hokokusho (kokaiyo)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1997-03-01

    A study of `the next generation new iron steel making process` was conducted in which impurity elements in scrap are removed and recycled into high quality steel making materials, and at the same time total emissions are reduced during the process from scrap melting to steel making. The paper reported the fiscal 1996 results. In the study of the scrap recycling process, conducted were a study of the total system to remove impurities in the high temperature preheating furnace, a large scale experiment of de-coaling combined type de-coppering/de-tinning under reduced pressure of iron melting, a study of recycling technology of dust to the scrap melting furnace, etc. In the study on preheating/melting technology, a study of the scrap melting furnace of high-productivity/low-energy vertical type, a study of the scrap preheating method using the packed bed type preheating furnace, a study on the flue gas control at the time of preheating/melting, a study of the fast assessment method for organic compounds in flue gas, etc. In the evaluation of the total system, a study of preheating/melting/environmental systems using experimental plants. 20 refs., 23 figs., 10 tabs.

  11. FY 1991 Report on research and development of super heat pump energy accumulation system. Material for explanation (Construction and operation of the prototype system - researches on elementary techniques and construction and operation of the pilot system); Super heat pump energy shuseki system no kenkyu kaihatsu 1991 nendo seika hokokusho. Setsumei shiryo (system shisaku unten kenkyu (yoso gijutsu no kenkyu / pilot system no shisaku unten kenkyu))

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1982-05-01

    Summarized herein are R and D results of the researches on the super heat pump energy accumulation system, obtained from FY 1985 to 1991. For R and D of the super high performance compression heat pumps, the R and D results of the elementary techniques and bench and pilot plant operation are summarized for the highly efficient type (for heating) and highly efficient type (for cooling and heating), and high temperature type (utilizing high temperature heat source) and high temperature type (utilizing low temperature heat source). Described are patent application list, designated know-hows, and conclusions. For the elementary equipment and working fluids, the R and D results are summarized for the evaporators for mixed solvents, EHD condensers, and working fluids (alcohol-based fluids and application characteristics of new fluids) and working fluids (nonalcohol-based fluids and basic properties of new fluids). For the chemical heat storage techniques, the R and D results are summarized for the high temperature heat storage type (utilizing metathesis reactions, ammonia complexes and hydration reactions), and low temperature heat storage type (utilizing clathrates, hydration by solute mixing and solvation). (NEDO)

  12. Achievement report for fiscal 1996 on the research and development of superconductor technology to power generation. Pt. 1. Research and development of superconducting wire, generator, total system, and refrigeration system; and verification test; 1996 nendo chodendo denryoku oyo gijutsu kaihatsu seika hokokusho. 1. Chodendo senzai no kenkyu kaihatsu, chodendo hatsudenki no kenkyu kaihatsu, total system no kenkyu, reito system no kenkyu kaihatsu, jissho shiken

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1997-12-01

    In the research and development of superconducting wires, studies are conducted to increase the current capacity of NbTi and Nb{sub 3}Sn metal wires and to improve their properties, and to increase the current capacity of oxide materials and improve their performance making full use of the features of each manufacturing method. In the development of superconducting generators, a slow excitation response type is tested for verification, and a good result is attained; and a quick excitation response type is tested for field winding static excitation, and good performance is exhibited. Using the results so far achieved, the 200,000kW class pilot machine concept design is reviewed. In the study of total systems, feasibility is studied of a quench test for the 70,000kW class machine through simulation analyses, etc. In the development of refrigeration systems, efforts are exerted to improve on the conventional type in terms of reliability and to further improve on the improved version in terms of performance and space-saving feature. One of the endeavors involves the development of a He Brayton cycle turbine driven compressor. A multilayer cylindrical rotor is verified in terms of functions, characteristics, reliability and durability, and various data are collected toward the development of a pilot machine. (NEDO)

  13. Leading research report for fiscal 1998 on the report on researches on intelligent social infrastructure technology; 1998 nendo chiteki shakai kiban kogaku gijutsu no chosa kenkyu hokokusho sendo kenkyu hokokusho

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1999-03-01

    Researches are conducted for showing some guidelines on the system and method of the intelligent social infrastructure technology (ISIT) as a 21st century type systematization technology, and a report is submitted on the result. Discussed in the report are the technological system and image of ISIT, the research and development setup and administrative tasks involving intelligent social infrastructure construction, and the systematization and operation of the ISIT. Mentioned as important element technologies are the infrastructure and information/communications technologies for security and disaster prevention, information technology and automatization technology for maintenance, and intelligent materials enabling disaster prediction and detection. Stated in connection with the future development of ISIT are information/communication technologies for system control, monitoring, and normal/urgent dual use. Specific examples are shown, such as the active card, urban disaster prevention and monitoring system, active city, intelligent network, and so forth. (NEDO)

  14. FY 1996 Report on the research and development project for interdisciplinary area. Part.2. Research on bionic designs; 1996 nendo yugo ryoiki kenkyu kaihatsu. 2. Bionic design ni kansuru kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1997-03-01

    The objects of this project are to elucidate the self-organization mechanisms of a living body, e.g., functional adaptation to environments and self-restoration, to utilize the molecular interactions in a living body, and thereby to establish the basic technologies for developing molecular motor functions, e.g., artificial organs. Described herein are the FY 1996 results. For creation of living soft tissues, N-ePTFE and Gf are found to be good base materials for cell growth in the serum-free culture, and may be applicable to bio-reactors. Sugar-bound high-molecular-weight compounds and artificial hyaloid body are created. For hard tissue materials, e.g., artificial articulation, the macrophage is activated by englobing worn debris of polyethylene, to activate the broken bone cells that absorb the bone, causing the artificial articulation to become loose. For researches on molecular motor mechanisms, it is considered that myosin changes the head morphology to give a driving force to the muscle, and this concept is studied in detail. The photosynthesizing protein is a molecule related to light and electricity, and is useful as the material to apply the living functions to industrial technologies. The technologies for assembling molecules are studied by utilizing the self-organization functions of living molecules. Development of other molecular machines is also attempted. (NEDO)

  15. Ultimate evaluation report on research and development of basic technologies for next-generation industry. Conductive polymeric materials; Jisedai sangyo kiban gijutsu kenkyu kaihatsu saishu kenkyu kaihatsu hyoka. Dodensei kobunshi zairyo

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1991-05-01

    Basic technologies are established that equip polymeric materials (insulators in general) with conductivity similar to that of metals for the realization of novel conducting materials characterized by light weight, high resistance to corrosion, and ease of machining, and for the manufacture of novel electrical/electronic materials having new functions different from those of conventionally used metals. The aims are to realize a conductivity of 10{sup 5}S/cm or more, to manufacture materials sufficiently stable when left in the ordinary or inert atmosphere, and to manufacture materials which may be machined into proper shapes as required in the industry. The results of the 10-year-long development endeavor greatly contribute to the creation of high-level materials, the systematization of technologies, and the elucidation of the conducting mechanism. In relation to polymeric materials, in particular, a new technology is developed that equips, with high reproducibility, polymeric materials with conductivity similar to that of silver or copper; a graphitic material is created for the first time provided with conductivity superior to that of metals; and conducting polymeric materials are equipped with an easy-to-machine feature. A great contribution is accomplished to the production of superconductivity in organic charge-transfer complex crystals and to the elucidation of the conducting mechanism. (NEDO)

  16. Leading research report for fiscal 1998 on the research of basic technologies of cranial nerve cell engineering; 1998 nendo noshinkei saibo kogaku kiban gijutsu no chosa kenkyu sendo kenkyu hokokusho

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1999-03-01

    Researches are conducted about the present and future of the research and development of elementary technological details for elucidating, from the viewpoint of the level of molecules or cells, the functions of neurons which are the basic elements of the cranial nerve circuit and for applying the results to cranial nerve cell engineering. It is then concluded that the most important and urgent is to 'develop basic technologies for understanding the functions of neural circuits so that a remedial step may be taken in the presence of a defect in a neural circuit and that electronic devices may be applied to help neural functions.' It is agreed that the most immediate and ripple-effective is to 'establish the technology of intelligent connection between electronic devices and neural circuits for the reconstruction of motor functions.' It is also concluded that, upon achievement of the above two goals, new basic technologies will become available for the moderation of problems in the sensor input and motor output systems by means of electronic circuits, for the improvement on efficiency of rehabilitation with the aid of electronics, for the cure of denatured nerves or a damaged spinal cord, for the study of neural circuits, etc., and that a new industrial series will be created through the utilization of the above-mentioned details. (NEDO)

  17. Leading research report for fiscal 1998 on the research of basic technologies of cranial nerve cell engineering; 1998 nendo noshinkei saibo kogaku kiban gijutsu no chosa kenkyu sendo kenkyu hokokusho

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1999-03-01

    Researches are conducted about the present and future of the research and development of elementary technological details for elucidating, from the viewpoint of the level of molecules or cells, the functions of neurons which are the basic elements of the cranial nerve circuit and for applying the results to cranial nerve cell engineering. It is then concluded that the most important and urgent is to 'develop basic technologies for understanding the functions of neural circuits so that a remedial step may be taken in the presence of a defect in a neural circuit and that electronic devices may be applied to help neural functions.' It is agreed that the most immediate and ripple-effective is to 'establish the technology of intelligent connection between electronic devices and neural circuits for the reconstruction of motor functions.' It is also concluded that, upon achievement of the above two goals, new basic technologies will become available for the moderation of problems in the sensor input and motor output systems by means of electronic circuits, for the improvement on efficiency of rehabilitation with the aid of electronics, for the cure of denatured nerves or a damaged spinal cord, for the study of neural circuits, etc., and that a new industrial series will be created through the utilization of the above-mentioned details. (NEDO)

  18. Leading research and study report for fiscal 1998. Research and study of 3-dimensional ion processing technologies; 1998 nendo sendo chosa kenkyu hokokusho. Sanjigen ion kako gijutsu no chosa kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1999-03-01

    Reported are the results of 'Research of 3-Dimensional Ion Processing Technologies.' Tasks to solve before the practical application of 3-dimensional technologies are extracted, and the possible effects of the new technologies on the creation of novel industries are investigated. In the field of new processing technologies, the special characteristics, current state, and tasks to solve are reported concerning the implantation technology, film formation technology, and hybridization which utilize plasma ion implantation. In the field of element technologies for device development, the current state and tasks of high-density plasma generation, homogeneous implantation, etc., are taken up, and the need is mentioned of inductively coupled plasma and surface wave excited plasma. As regards homogeneous implantation, the need is mentioned of technologies for forming matrix sheaths and pulsed plasma. In the field of 3-dimensional ion processing technologies application to the production of commercial goods, large items and their components such as automobiles, rollers, turbines, etc., are taken up, and the surface reforming technologies are reported, with reference made to their current state, tasks, predicted future market, concurrent technologies, feasibility of their application, the hopes and expectations they have aroused, etc. (NEDO)

  19. Leading research and study report for fiscal 1998. Research and study of 3-dimensional ion processing technologies; 1998 nendo sendo chosa kenkyu hokokusho. Sanjigen ion kako gijutsu no chosa kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1999-03-01

    Reported are the results of 'Research of 3-Dimensional Ion Processing Technologies.' Tasks to solve before the practical application of 3-dimensional technologies are extracted, and the possible effects of the new technologies on the creation of novel industries are investigated. In the field of new processing technologies, the special characteristics, current state, and tasks to solve are reported concerning the implantation technology, film formation technology, and hybridization which utilize plasma ion implantation. In the field of element technologies for device development, the current state and tasks of high-density plasma generation, homogeneous implantation, etc., are taken up, and the need is mentioned of inductively coupled plasma and surface wave excited plasma. As regards homogeneous implantation, the need is mentioned of technologies for forming matrix sheaths and pulsed plasma. In the field of 3-dimensional ion processing technologies application to the production of commercial goods, large items and their components such as automobiles, rollers, turbines, etc., are taken up, and the surface reforming technologies are reported, with reference made to their current state, tasks, predicted future market, concurrent technologies, feasibility of their application, the hopes and expectations they have aroused, etc. (NEDO)

  20. Fiscal 1998 research report. Survey on R and D, and application technology of biotechnology; 1998 nendo chosa hokokusho. Bio technology no kenkyu kaihatsu, sangyoka gijutsu nado ni kansuru chosa kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1999-03-01

    Survey was made mainly on use of biotechnology as resource saving and energy saving processes. Biotechnology is in wide use in a pharmaceutical field, while its application is on the increase in agriculture, food, chemistry, energy and environment fields. The USA is ahead of Japan and Europe. In the USA, there are more than 1000 ventures, and R and D of biotechnology, in particular, gene analysis and manipulation techniques are in progress together with acquisition of patents. In biomass energy, production of ethanol from corn, and development of biodiesel are in progress in the USA and Europe, respectively. Use of biomass should be promoted because of its global environment compatibility and sustainable productivity. In the future bio-market, genome analysis and its application are most important, however, Japan is behind in such technology in the world. The Joint approach by industry, university and government is necessary from the viewpoint of a future marketability and international competitiveness. Promotion of a public acceptance and nurture of creative talents are also important. (NEDO)

  1. Research and development of system to utilize photovoltaic energy. Survey on the evaluation of photovoltaic power generation; Taiyoko hatsuden riyo system no kenkyu kaihatsu. Taiyoko hatsuden hyoka no chosa kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Tatsuta, M [New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization, Tokyo (Japan)

    1994-12-01

    This paper reports the survey results on evaluation of PV power generation in fiscal 1994. (1) On the evaluation technique of energy pay-back time, foreign trial calculation examples by integration method were surveyed. However, there were not many study examples, and the calculation basis of input energy was also ambiguous. The calculation result by input-output analysis in Japan gave the value more than that by integration method, pointing out that indirect input energy is essential. (2) On the evaluation technique of the degree of environmental contribution, CO2 emission of the PV generation system installed on ordinary housing roofs was calculated to estimate reduction of CO2 emission and cost. As a result, PV power generation as reduction measures against CO2 brought a little cost increase. (3) On the latent scale of PV power generation, it was estimated to be nearly 191GW although under no restriction. It was a considerably large value as compared with the current power generation capacity in Japan. 4 tabs.

  2. Research and development of peripheral technology for photovoltaic power systems. Research on engineering methods for cost effective PV installation; Shuhen gijutsu no kenkyu kaihatsu. Tashu secchi koho no kenkyu kaihatsu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Tatsuta, M [New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization, Tokyo (Japan)

    1994-12-01

    This paper reports the study results on R and D of engineering methods for photovoltaic power system installation in fiscal 1994. (1) On the survey on applicable fields, various application aspects, applicability, and problems on location and legal regulation were continuously studied for railway, river reservation, lake surface and public facility as promising locations after highway in the last fiscal year. The result pointed out relatively easy possibility of PV power generation of nearly 11,700MW except residence and building fields. (2) On installation technology of solar cell arrays, several models based on various installation conditions, construction methods and system configurations were studied, and various application aspects were proposed by combination of simple design conditions. (3) On test and evaluation of the structural design of array racks, wind tunnel experiments were conducted for structure wall, platform shed and highway sound insulation wall. (4) On basic design of various promising systems, the conceptual design of interconnection systems was carried out assuming applications to highway and railway. 7 figs., 3 tabs.

  3. Leading research report for fiscal 1998 on the super-survey (Next-generation underground exploration technology); 1998 nendo super survey (jisedai chika tansa gijutsu) no chosa kenkyu sendo chosa kenkyu hokokusho

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1999-03-01

    Researches are conducted on innovative mineral resources exploration technologies which use seismic waves or scattered electromagnetic waves to grasp the 3-dimensional structure in the ground. In fiscal 1998, a concrete research and development program is formulated, under which the seismic method and electromagnetic method will deal with an approximately 1km{sup 2}-large area of metalliferous deposit seated approximately 500m deep. In addition, researches are conducted overseas on the trend of related technologies. At an NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance) workshop held at the Society of Exploration Geophysicist, U.S., application of the NMR method to water is suggested. At a European Geophysical Society of environmental research and civil engineering event, useful knowledge is acquired about a 4-dimensional sounding (monitoring) technique in which a time axis is added to the 3-dimensional sounding technique and a high-resolution high-efficiency sounding system for probing shallow layers. During visits at Australian institutes concerned with the electromagnetic sounding technology, the trend of probing technologies especially those using the superconducting quantum interface device (SQUID) is gasped. (NEDO)

  4. Fiscal 1991 research report. Research trend survey for next-generation industrial structure technology research and development project - Research and development of advanced materials for extreme environments; 1991 nendo jisedai sangyo kiban gijutsu kenkyu kaihatsu project ni kakawaru kenkyu doko chosa hokokusho. Chotaikankyosei senshin zairyo no kenkyu kaihatsu (sekitoku daiene)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1992-03-01

    Efforts were exerted to develop intermetallic compounds and C/C (carbon/carbon) composites to serve as advanced materials for extreme environments. In relation with advanced materials, especially with intermetallic compounds and fiber reinforced intermetallic compound composite materials, a technical research survey was conducted covering the three fields of (1) summarization of activities conducted up to fiscal 1991, (2) contents of associated aerospace projects, and (3) aeroengine components. In Field (1), the ground on which the project was created and the project's basic plans, goals, and systems, and its ripple effects are discussed, and the fruits produced so far are summarized. In Field (2), aeroengine component related projects of America, Britain, France, Germany, and Japan are investigated. In Field (3), aluminum alloys, titanium alloys, alloy steel, superalloys, intermetallic compounds, and intermetallic compound composite materials are discussed with attention paid to their current status and future trend, characteristics they are supposed to finally assume, and technical tasks to discharge for the development of technologies concerned. (NEDO)

  5. Fiscal 1991 research report. Research trend survey for next-generation industrial structure technology research and development project - Research and development of advanced materials for extreme environments; 1991 nendo jisedai sangyo kiban gijutsu kenkyu kaihatsu project ni kakawaru kenkyu doko chosa hokokusho. Chotaikankyosei senshin zairyo no kenkyu kaihatsu (sekitoku sekiyu)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1992-03-01

    Efforts were exerted to develop intermetallic compounds and advanced C/C (carbon/carbon) composite materials usable under extreme environments such as high temperatures. In relation with advanced composite materials, especially with projects for developing composite materials using oil as raw material, a survey was conducted of the three fields of (1) summarization of activities conducted up to fiscal 1991, (2) contents of associated aerospace projects, and (3) oil based composite material technology. In Field (1), past achievements are summarized. In Field (2), aerospace projects under way across the world are broken down by airframe and engine, and are reviewed from the viewpoint of needs for materials. In Field (3), the present and future of heat resisting thermosetting composite materials, thermoplastic composite materials, and C/C composites are discussed. Characteristics such materials are supposed to finally assume and tasks to discharge for technical development are also taken up. (NEDO)

  6. Noncontact measurement of rotating blade vibrations. Doyoku shindo no hisesshoku keisokuho no kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Matsuda, Yukio; Endo, Masanori; Sugiyama, Nanahisa; Koshinuma, Takeshi

    1989-08-01

    The noncontact measurement method of rotating blade vibrations was developed for fans, compressors and turbines, and applied to turbofan engines and industrial gas turbines. The method required no machining of blades and rotor except sensors attached to a casing to detect blade-tips. The method allowed to measure simultaneously the vibration of all blades, by measuring elapsed times of blade-tips rotating from a measuring start point to a detecting point, and detecting the time differences between a vibration and non-vibration condition. The measuring system was composed of the detectors and subsystems for signal processing, control, calculation and display. The vibration wave forms of a few blades and the maximum vibration amplitudes of all the blades were displayed on a realtime basis in an on-line monitoring mode, and an off-line data processing mode was also available for subsequent analyses and reviews. The results of application to existing engines favorably agreed with those of strain gage measurements. 16 refs., 75 figs., 3 tabs.

  7. FY 1998 Annual report on researcher exchange project; 1998 nendo kenkyu koryu chosa

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1999-03-01

    Surveys were conducted on, e.g., problems involved in and current state of receiving foreign students and exchanging researchers, and US systems for these activities, in order to help establish the effective systems for these activities while focusing on global utilization of researchers. For problems involved in the atmospheres in Japan for receiving foreign students and researchers, the surveyed items include those problems involved in the academic atmospheres, living/employment, administrative systems, and establishment/enrichment of the systems for receiving foreign students. Opinions of foreign students studying at their expenses are also included. For problems involved in exchanging Asian researchers, the surveyed items include current state of researchers crossing the borders and obstacles to the international exchange. For the US systems receiving foreign researchers and sending American students to foreign countries, the surveyed items include current state of Americans studying in foreign countries, foreign students and teachers in advanced educational institutes, backward flow of scientists and engineers to the Asian countries, and international comparison in training scientists and engineers in advanced educational institutes. (NEDO)

  8. Investigation research on autonomous responsive materials; Jiritsu oto zairyo ni kansuru chosa kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1996-03-01

    A survey was made on autonomous responsive materials as a new material which reversibly change molecular structures and the aggregation state according to external stimuli. Autonomous responsive materials imitate environmental responsibility in the living organism system and have sensing, control and active functions for external stimuli. The materials are highly efficient and environmentally friendly. In biomimetic materials for soft actuators, drastic changes by temperature of elastic modulus of water-swollen hydrogel are used to the motion. In order to molecularly design stimulus-responsible polymer gel, studied are the relation between the micro structure and stimulus responsibility, dynamic correlation between the micro structure and the macro structure, etc. In the biomedical field, new cure and diagnosis using innovative materials are expected, and the application of autonomous responsive materials to the field is studied. For example, using hydrogel responding the temperature and the surface and controlling by temperature the interaction with components of the organism such as protein and cells, drug delivery in the organism is optimized. Also studied is the application of hydrophilic/hydrophobic changes by temperature to the chromatography. 215 refs., 47 figs., 11 tabs.

  9. Structural experiment of wind turbine blades; Fushayo blade no zairyo rikigakuteki jikken kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Seki, K; Shimizu, Y; Kuroyanagi, H [Tokai University, Tokyo (Japan)

    1997-11-25

    Aluminum, GFRP and composite of aluminum coated with carbon as structural materials for wind turbine blades were bending-tested, to improve blade bending stiffness, understand stress conditions at each position, and clarify structural dynamic strength by the bending-failure test. It is possible to estimate stress conditions at each position from the test results of displacement and strain at each load. The test results with GFRP are well explained qualitatively by the boundary theory, known as a theory for composite materials. The test gives reasonable material strength data, useful for designing wind turbines of high functions and safety. The results of the blade bending-failure test are in good agreement with the calculated structural blade strength. It is also found that GFRP is a good material of high structural strength for wind turbines. 8 refs., 6 tabs.

  10. Earthquake ground motion research in Sapporo city; Sapporoshi ni okeru jishindo no kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Sasatani, T [Hokkaido University, Sapporo (Japan)

    1997-10-22

    The Research Group on Earthquake Ground Motion in Sapporo City established in May 1996 has inaugurated collection of information on ground structures and observations of strong earthquakes in Sapporo City. The Research Group on Earthquake Ground Motion in Sapporo City has carried out geological investigations, electric logging and PS logging to date in three boring holes each with a depth of about 100 m, 200 m and 600 m. According to the result of the logging in the new Ishikari Bay port (600-m deep hole), the S-wave velocity has increased slowly as it starts from the ground surface to greater depths, but showed no noticeable velocity boundaries in this range of the depth. The Sapporo municipal office has drilled three observation wells (500-m deep) for the purpose of determining focal points of microtremors directly under the city area. Hole-bottom observation has been inaugurated since the beginning of this year. According to comparison of the results of loggings at great depths, a depth at which the S-wave velocity reaches about 700 m/s becomes greater toward the sea area. The result of calculations on amplification characteristics of the SH wave on rock beds revealed that a seismic wave of about 0.5 Hz is amplified by a little more than two times. 1 ref., 5 figs., 1 tab.

  11. R and D of remote reading system. Remote reading system no kaihatsu kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Nakano, H.; Hamada, T.; Nakamura, O. (The Kansai Electric Power Co. Inc., Osaka (Japan)); Imai, Y.; Akiyama, K.

    1992-03-25

    As measures for the spots difficult in metering within a framework to integrally automate the power distribution, a remote reading system was prototypically tested and evaluated in reliability on the actual field. The system methodically selected the signal {prime}s line injection, high frequency wave signal and voltage detection, while the signal frequency, transmission rate and highest transmission output were set at approx. 3.5KHz, 7.5bps and 50dBm, respectively from the test result. The demonstration test on reliability of the system locatively selected a vicinity of high voltage consumer, high harmonic wave-generating consumer, transforming station, etc. The total ratio of success in reception was comparatively high in Kuzuno and Yamazaki areas, but low in Kamojyo and Ichinomiya areas, The badness in reception was caused by the fluctuation in noise and strongness in damping which was influenced by the condenser in the high voltage consumer. The locative relation between the parent and child stations of system, and high voltage consumer being classified into four patters, an application table of remote reading system was prepared by simulation. 14 figs., 6 tabs.

  12. Visualization techniques in diesel engine research. Diesel Engine kenkyu ni okeru kashika gijutsu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Komori, M.; Tsujimura, K. (New ACE., Tsukuba (Japan))

    1993-04-01

    In order to grasp the phenomena actually occurring in the combustion chamber for improving the combustion and for reducing the exhaust gas emission of the diesel engines, the visualization techniques are becoming to be essential and indispensable. The authors have observed the spray and combustion, when proceeding the combustion improvement by the high pressure injection, and then have performed the image processing and simulation calculation based on them. The high pressure injection devices used for the experiment are the intensifier type and accumulator type which can generate the injection pressure more than 200MPa, and both of them are the electronic controlled hydraulic drive type, and are driven separately from the engine. Since it was found that the analysis of high pressure injection by the hologram is limited in the conditions, as for the spray, the spray analysis was performed by the transmitted light attenuation method and laser sheet method. As for the combustion, the engine for observing the combustion was trially made, and then the combustion state was observed by the high speed photograph. Furthermore, the flame temperature analysis by the image processing using the combustion photograph and the analysis of flow and turbulence of the flame were carried out. 9 refs., 16 figs.

  13. Research and development of photovoltaic power system; Taiyoko hatsuden system no jissho kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Tatsuta, M [New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization, Tokyo (Japan)

    1994-12-01

    This paper reports the result obtained during fiscal 1994 on a demonstration research on photovoltaic power generating systems. Solar cells with an output of 750 kW, storage battery facilities with an output of 3,058 kWh, three DC-AC converters with a rating of 250 kW, and a diesel generator with an output of 300 kW having been installed up to the previous fiscal year were combined to perform comprehensive adjustments and tests such as battery charge/discharge tests and AC parallel operation tests. The battery charge/discharge tests revealed that the 10 hour rate discharge capacity meets the specifications, and the batteries are free of deterioration after a demonstration operation of about 4.5 months. Difference between the power generation record and the planned value is thought due to the following reasons: the array output data in a power line connected system come about 90% of the simulation result due to correction coefficient for the solar cell conversion efficiency; the inclined face insolation results in less by about 7% than the planned value, and the transmittable power amount less by about 14% in total; the load power amount is less by about 7% than the planned value; and the balance supplementing power factor increases by about 4%. 5 figs., 2 tabs.

  14. Trial manufacture of portable type `WISH BOX`; Kahangata WISH BOX no shisaku kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Ushiyama, I; Sakuma, H; Qin, W [Ashikaga Institute of Technology, Tochigi (Japan); Onai, Y

    1996-10-27

    This paper proposes the small portable type power source `WISH BOX` (wind and solar hybrid) composed of a small wind power generator and solar cell panels. Since solar radiation and wind power are complementary to each other in seasons, day and night, and fine and cloudy weather, WISH BOX is useful for standalone power source in non-power areas of developing countries, life spot in disasters, and outdoor leisure. The most small light-weight high-performance AIR303 produced by Southwest Windpower Co., USA is used as wind power generator, and two 50W solar cell panels HSC-5010-S produced by Daido Hokusan Co. is used. Sealed lead storage batteries (12V, 20Ah each) are also connected to cope with load fluctuation. In comparison with conventional portable gasoline engine generators, this environment-friendly generator is featured by fuel-free, no emission of gases, no noises and no fire occurrence, and can also supply stable power with small batteries even in the nighttime and cloudy weather by combining wind power. The generator of 400,000 yen is now in field experiment. 2 refs., 5 figs.

  15. Jet engine R and D and I; Watashi to jet engine kenkyu kaihatsu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Murashima, K. [Ishikawajima-Harima Heavy Industries Co. Ltd., Tokyo (Japan)

    1998-06-10

    My efforts towards at the development of aeroengines since the end of the war are described. The J3-7 engine propelled the T1 trainer plane, and was installed as booster aboard the P2J antisubmarine patrol aircraft. It was the first jet engine that Japan produced after the end of the war, and had been in use until quite recently. I took part in the construction of a prototype of the JR100 series designed to serve as VTOL (vertical take-off and landing) aircraft lift engines, and in the test thereof. As the shift from turbojet to turbofan proceeded, I participated in the development of the FJR710 engine under the guidance of National Aerospace Laboratory, and the product was installed aboard an experimental STOL (short take-off and landing) aircraft Asuka. I next joined a Defense Agency initiative for a reheat turbofan to replace the J3 aboard trainer plane, and the result was the low bypass ratio/high output F3 engine. In 1989, Ministry of International Trade and Industry decided for a large-scale project of developing an engine for a next-generation supersonic transport, and the HYPR (Super/Hypersonic Transport Propulsion System) project was started. The project was participated in by manufacturers from overseas, which were GE, P and W, RR, and SNECMA. The foreign corporations worked on an equal footing with the Japanese parties, and collaboration between the participants was smooth, with each party endeavoring in the field they were good at. The project will be concluded as scheduled in fiscal 1998. (NEDO)

  16. Recent surveys and researches on pollinosis in Japan; Kafunsho ni kansuru chosa kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Shido, T. [The Inst. of Public Health, Tokyo (Japan)

    1998-05-31

    In this paper, recent investigations and researches on pollinosis are summarized as centering on the investigation entrusted by the Ministry of Health and Welfare and executed since 1992, and especially the surveys on Japanese cedar pollinosis during 1995 to 1996. The quantity of pollen surveyed in 1995 is the greatest in the survey history of nationwide flying pollen. Particularly, the quantity of cedar and hinoki pollen is 10 to 40 times as many as that in the year before. Consequently, since the sensitization and onset due to the cedar pollen increased greatly, the objects of the surveys and the researches were mainly in respect to the analysis of onset factors of pollinosis, clarification of its natural process, evaluation on the effectiveness of desensitization therapy, the clinical subjects including the confirmation of pharynx symptom and asthma symptom, and the discovery of naturally sensitizing dog. A fact that the quantity of flying pollen concerns the occurrence and degree of the clinical symptom has already been indicated by a clinical observation carried out for a long period of time. In respect to specific prophylaxis and therapy, for the first time the pollen masks and glasses sold on the market are investigated, and the necessity of the verification thereof is described. 27 refs., 7 figs., 5 tabs.

  17. Studies on CO2 removal and reduction. CO2 taisaku kenkyu no genjo

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Shindo, Y [National Institute of Materials and Chemical Research, Tsukuba (Japan)

    1993-02-01

    This paper summarizes study trends mainly in CO2 fixing processes. Underground CO2 storage is a most promising method because it can fix a huge amount of CO2 and has low effects on ecological systems. Storing CO2 in ocean includes such methods as storing it in deep oceans; storing it in deep ocean beds; dissolving it into sea water; neutralizing it with calcium carbonates; and precipitating it as dry ice. Japan, disposing CO2 in these ways, may create international problems. Separation of CO2 may use a chemical absorption process as a superior method. Other processes discussed include a physical adsorption method and a membrane separation method. A useful method for CO2 fixation using marine organisms is fixation using coral reefs. This process will require an overall study including circulation of phosphorus and nitrogen. Marine organisms may include planktons and algae. CO2 fixation using land plants may be able to fix one trillion and 8 hundred billion tons of CO2 as converted to carbon. This process would require forest protection, prevention of desertification, and tree planting. Discussions are being given also on improving power generation cycles, recovering CO2 from automotive exhausts, and backfilling carbons into ground by means of photosynthesis. 23 refs., 7 figs., 1 tab.

  18. Concentrations of radionuclides in imported foods from foreign countries in Japan (2000-2003)

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Sugiyama, Hideo; Terada, Hiroshi; Hirata, Asumi; Sakurai, Kasane; Miyata, Masahiro; Goto, Shigeo

    2004-01-01

    Japanese law concerning prohibition against marketing insanitary foods, etc, has defined the limit of radioactivity level in imported foods (370 Bq/kg in total of 137 Cs and 134 Cs radioactivities) post Chernobyl accident and check for this has been performed by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare. The present report describes results of additional examination, conducted by National Institute of Public Health, or the Kobe or Yokohama Quarantine Station, of radionuclide (γ-emitters) concentration in imported foods during the period 2000-2003. Foods examined are from northern (40 samples) and southern (8) America, Asia (66), Oceania (9), Africa (8) and Europe (12), and are 13 kinds of grains, 12 nuts/seeds, 1 potato, 17 fruits, 12 green/yellow vegetables, 13 other vegetables, 19 mushrooms, 4 seaweeds, 15 nonessential taste items like tea leaves, 19 fishes and 12 meats. Samples are those homogenized, freeze-dried or mineralized. The Ge-semiconductor detector connected with a pulse-height analyzer is used for γ-ray detection, mainly that of 137 Cs and 134 Cs, and for 40 K as a natural radionuclide. Sample weights are 1,000-2,000 g and counting times, 100,000-300,000 seconds. Results reveal that 137 Cs alone is detectable as a artificial radionuclide but its level is as low as that in similar Japanese foods. Thus the annual effective dose due to intake of 137 Cs in imported foods is evaluated enough low in adults. (N.I.)

  19. Current Situation of Treatment for Anaphylaxis in a Japanese Pediatric Emergency Center.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Ninchoji, Takeshi; Iwatani, Sota; Nishiyama, Masahiro; Kamiyoshi, Naohiro; Taniguchi-Ikeda, Mariko; Morisada, Naoya; Ishibashi, Kazuto; Iijima, Kazumoto; Ishida, Akihito; Morioka, Ichiro

    2018-04-01

    Anaphylaxis is a systemic allergic reaction that sometimes requires prompt treatment with intramuscular adrenaline. The aim of the study was to investigate the current situation regarding anaphylaxis treatment in a representative pediatric primary emergency facility in Japan. We retrospectively examined the medical records dating from April 2011 through March 2014 from Kobe Children's Primary Emergency Medical Center, where general pediatricians work on a part-time basis. Clinical characteristics and current treatments for patients with anaphylaxis who presented to the facility were investigated. Furthermore, we compared the clinical characteristics between anaphylaxis patients given intramuscular adrenaline and those not given it. During the study period, 217 patients were diagnosed with anaphylaxis. The median Sampson grade at the time of visit was 2, and 90 patients (41%) were grade 4 or higher. No patients received self-intramuscular injected adrenaline before arrival at our emergency medical center because none of the patients had been prescribed it. Further treatment during the visit was provided to 128 patients (59%), with only 17 (8%) receiving intramuscular adrenaline. Patients given intramuscular adrenaline had significantly lower peripheral saturation of oxygen at the visit (P = 0.025) and more frequent transfer to a referral hospital (P < 0.001) than those not given intramuscular adrenaline. Education for Japanese pediatric practitioners and patients is warranted, because no patients used self-intramuscular injected adrenaline as a prehospital treatment for anaphylaxis, and only severely affected patients who needed oxygen therapy or hospitalization received intramuscular adrenaline in a pediatric primary emergency setting.

  20. Clinical evaluation of radio and chemotherapy for small cell carcinoma of the lung

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Hirota, Saeko; Imajo, Yoshinari; Gose, Kyuhei

    1985-01-01

    Sixty-nine patients with small cell carcinoma of the lung were treated at Kobe University Hospital from January 1972 to August 1982. The results of treatment were as follows. i) Five year survival rate was greater for stage III cases than for stage IV cases (p < 0.05). ii) Differences of therapeutic effects between two periods, before and after 1977, were evaluated. Cases with stage III small cell carcinoma showed a tendency forwards improved survival rate after 1977, however, no significant difference was seen with stage IV cases before and after 1977. iii) In terms of what therapy improved the survival rate, among stage III patients, 7 were treated with combination chemotherapy and radiotherapy (group A), 14 were treated with single agent chemotherapy and radiotherapy (group B) and 4 with only radiotherapy. Among stage IV cases, 9 belonged to group A and 20 to group B. Better survival rate was seen in group A compared with group B with regard to stage III, although it did not quite reach statistical significance (0.05 < p < 0.1), whereas no significant survival difference was seen with stage IV disease. iv) Significant differences of survival rate were seen between CR (complete remission) and PR (partial remission) patients (p < 0.05) and between CR and PD (progressive disease) patients (p < 0.01), as classified by preliminary therapeutic effects. v) No significant difference in survival rate was noted among the histologic subtypes. (author)

  1. 311 disaster and mental health countermeasures

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Yoshiharu Kim

    2014-12-01

    Full Text Available On 11 March 2011, a devastating earthquake struck off the coast of Japan, causing blustering tsunami that swept over the northeast coast of the country. Many struggled to evacuate from their homes, schools, and workplaces as 8- to 9-m-tall tsunami rapidly reached the coast within half an hour after the earthquake (Emergency Disaster Response Headquarters. The officials reported a record-breaking magnitude of 9.0 Mw, which made this earthquake the most devastating earthquake in the Japan's history. It had not been long since the previous massive earthquake had hit Kobe in 1995, killing 6,434 people (Japan Meteorological Agency. The author presents the outline of the initial mental-health-care responses at various levels. It has focused on the comprehensive strategies and policies that were intended to cover all the affected areas but has not described the individual countermeasures and reactions in each prefecture and city. The psychological effects of the atomic plant accident in Fukushima has not been mentioned in detail, because the scope of the physiological effect of the accident has not been settled yet and the society is not necessarily ready to deal with the accident as a psychological matter rather than a sociopolitical one. A number of psychiatric professionals are deeply concerned with the psychological and prolonged impact of the accident, including those who are in the Fukushima prefecture and conducting heroic efforts to care for the residents.

  2. The Formation of the Indian Entrepreneurial Community in Japan in the End of 19th – Early 20th Centuries

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Firsova Varvara Sergeevna

    2016-04-01

    Full Text Available The present article is based on Western, Japanese and field-work materials of the author who describes the main stages of formation of the Indian entrepreneurial diaspora in Japan in the period from the late 19th century until the beginning of the World War II. Indian entrepreneurs, being the representatives of trade and usury communities, Sindhis and Parsis in particular, started to arrive here in 1870s under British protection. Their main occupation was the export of Japanese textile which was the main export item of Japan in the mentioned period. Indians maintained the export of the textile goods, silk and cotton, in different countries all over the world through their strong entrepreneurial networks. The majority of Indian firms in Japan were Sindhis firms, and Sindhis network was especially prominent. Indian firms especially prospered in 1920-1930s, when their share of Japanese textile export constituted about 70 %. Thanks to strong ethnic loyalties, Indians in Japan could not only prosper but also successfully adapt to closed Japanese society. The article considers the pattern of settlement of Indians in Japan, and emphasizes two stages of Indian community formation in the pre-War period. The first one lasted from 1870s till 1923 year, when the community was formed basically in Yokohama. And the second stage after Great Kanto Earthquake lasted from 1923 till 1939, when it was constituted mainly in Kobe, which in present days remains the centre of Indian entrepreneurial community in Japan.

  3. First conceptual design of the experimental multi-purpose high temperature reactor

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Tsunoda, T [Fuji Electric Co. Ltd., Tokyo (Japan)

    1976-02-01

    A part of the multi-purpose high temperature reactor (VHTR) was designed by the First Atomic Power Industry Group (FAPIG). Both Fuji Electric Co., Ltd. and Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. of the FAPIG group took charge of the design of main parts of the reactor Kobe Steel, Ltd., Ebara Manufacturing Co., Ltd., Shimizu Construction Co., Ltd. and the Nuclear Fuel Corp. have associated with this group. The reactor system includes a nuclear reactor and two cooling loops provided through intermediate heat exchangers in order to utilize the heat of helium gas delivered from the reactor outlet at 1,000 deg C. One is a reformer loop to produce the reducing gas for steel manufacture. The other is a testing loop for a reducing gas heater and a gas turbine. These loops transfer heat of about 25 MW at 930 deg C at rated capacity. The reformer can supply the reducing gas equivalent to the production of 100 tons per day sponge iron. A housing of the reactor is composed of a primary steel container, internal concrete and a secondary container made of reinforced concrete. The construction is based on the following principles. (1) For the very high temperature portion at 1,000 deg C, a non-metallic material such as graphite should be used. (2) The metallic construction shall be cooled with return gas below 400 deg C. (3) The steel pressure vessel shall be employed. (4) The design shall be based on the existing gas furnace.

  4. Knowledge, expertise and enthusiasm. Governments need the collaboration of the private sector including NGOs in effectively and timely tackling the global issues.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Taniguchi, H

    1998-01-01

    This article describes the US and Japan's "Common Agenda for Cooperation in Global Perspective." This agenda was launched in July 1993. The aim was to use a bilateral partnership to address critical global challenges in 1) Promotion of Health and Human Development; 2) Protection of the Environment; 3) Responses to Challenges to Global Stability; and 4) Advancement of Science and Technology. The bilateral effort has resulted in 18 initiatives worldwide. Six major accomplishments have occurred in coping with natural disasters in Kobe, Japan, and Los Angeles, US; coral reefs; assistance for women in developing countries; AIDS, children's health; and population problems. The bilateral effort has been successful due to the active involvement of the private sector, including businesses and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs). Many initiatives are developed and implemented in cooperation with local NGOs. The government needs the private sector's technical and managerial fields of expertise. Early investment in NGO efforts ensures the development of self-sustaining programs and public support. An Open Forum was held in March 12-13, 1998, as a commemoration of the 5-year cooperative bilateral effort. Over 300 people attended the Forum. Plenary sessions were devoted to the partnership between public and private sectors under the US-Japan Agenda. Working sessions focused on health and conservation. Participants suggested improved legal systems and social structures for facilitating activities of NGOs, further development by NGOs of their capacities, and support to NGOs from corporations.

  5. Magnetic enhancement and softening of fault gouges during seismic slip: Laboratory observation and implications

    Science.gov (United States)

    Yang, T.; Chen, J.; Dekkers, M. J.

    2017-12-01

    Anomalous rock magnetic properties have been reported in slip zones of many previous earthquakes (e.g., the 1995 Kobe earthquake, Japan; the 1999 Chi-Chi earthquake, Taiwan, and the 2008 Wenchuan earthquake, China). However, it is unclear whether short-duration frictional heating can actually induce such rock magnetic anomalies in fault zones; identification of this process in natural fault zones is not that straightforward. A promising approach to solve this problem is to conduct high-velocity friction (HVF) experiments that reproduce seismic fault movements and frictional heating in a simulated fault zone. Afterwards natural fault zones can be analyzed with renewed insight. Our HVF experiments on fault gouges that are simulating large amounts of earthquake slip, show significant magnetic enhancement and softening of sheared gouges. Mineral magnetic measurements reveal that magnetite was formed due to thermal decomposition of smectite during the HVF experiment on the paramagnetic fault gouge. Also, goethite was transformed to intermediate magnetite during the HVF experiment on the goethite-bearing fault gouge. Magnetic susceptibility, saturation remanence and saturation magnetization of sheared samples are linearly increasing with and strongly depend on the temperature rise induced by frictional heating; in contrast, coecivities are decreasing with increasing temperature. Thus, frictional heating can induce thermal decomposition/transformation during short-duration, high-velocity seismic slip, leading to magnetic enhancement and softening of a slip zone. Mineral magnetic methods are suited for diagnosing earthquake slip and estimating the temperature rise of co-seismic frictional heating.

  6. 'Modernization property' of our country is visualized / TAISEI; Wagakuni no 'kindaika isan' wo eizoka / taiseisensetsu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1998-11-10

    TAISEI was about rapidly promoted from Days of the Tokugawa shogunate over Meiji and Taisho this, and the documentary film which focused on building and 'the modernization property' which are related to industry and traffic and civil engineering which made the base of the our country development was planned and was produced. The title of the movie is 'travel to the Japan modernization property'. The movie which really introduced such modern age property is rare, and it s as an image material precious. It tries to pick up main thing, The oldest lighthouse 'Mikomotojima Island lighthouse (Shizuoka Prefect.1870)' and covers Shiga Prefecture and Kyoto prefecture,'The Lake Biwa hydrophobic', in our country, the first gravitational concrete dam 'Nunobiki Gohnmatsu dam, Kobe City, 1900'Length furnace for the cement baking which remains in Yamaguchi Prefect. 'The ONODA CEMENT (Pacific Ocean cement) sake bottle furnace'. In becoming modernization property which widely remains in our country and so on the guide person, Mr. Shinbo Minami of the illustrator has introduced it. The narration is the Mr. platform step of the actress. Still, screening party of this movie is done in the following schedule (admission free). The detailed query is Japanese movie new Co. (141-0021 2-10-17 Kami-Osaki, Shinagawa ku, Tokyo), TEL 03-3442-7251 FAX 03-3442-7360. (translated by NEDO)

  7. Musica Universalis or the Music of the Spheres

    Science.gov (United States)

    Birat, Jean-Pierre

    2018-06-01

    The Music of the Spheres was a model of the universe proposed by Pythagoras and Aristotle, which explained cosmology in terms of spheres to which the sun, the moon and the planets were pinned, while their motion was driven by something akin to music. Modern thinking, related to ecology and industrial ecology, has metaphorically breathed life back into this old model by speaking about spheres again: biosphere, geosphere, anthroposphere, technosphere, hydrosphere, cryosphere, atmosphere, etc. Sustainable development also speaks about its three pillars (economy, environment, society) represented in a Venn diagram as intersecting circles (or spheres). All these models differ from the models of physicists, as they are more conceptual diagrams than a representation of the world as it is. Thus, they remind us of the old Music of the Spheres model. They also stress connections, exchanges, equilibria between the spheres - or the lack of them -, like Pythagoras' music. The presentation will discuss these various approaches, see how they match to some extent, but also how they do not show a perfect fit. Analyzing what happens at the boundaries of the spheres, where they overlap or penetrate into each other, is a powerful way to analyze the connection between technology, society, life and ecosystems. It can also help discuss pollution, ecotoxicology and explore global solutions. This article was given as a keynote lecture at the EMERC 2017 (First International Conference on Energy and Material Efficiency), organized by ISIJ in Kobe, Japan, 11-13 October, 2017.

  8. Evaluation of Seismic Behavior of Steel Braced Frames with Controlled Rocking System and Energy Dissipating Fuses

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Hassan Amirzehni

    2016-12-01

    Full Text Available The self-centering rocking steel braced frames are new type of seismic lateral-force resisting systems that are developed with aim to limiting structural damages, minimizing residual drifts on systems and creating easy and inexpensive reconstruction capability, after sever earthquakes. In Steel braced frames with controlled rocking system, column bases on seismic resisting frame are not attached to the foundation and the frame allowed to rock freely. The task of restoring the rotated frame to its initial location is on post-tensioned cables, which attaches top of the frame to foundation. The design of post tensioned stands and braced frame members is such that during earthquakes they remain in elastic region. Seismic energy, dissipates by plastic deformations in replaceable elements on each rock of frame. In current research work, the seismic behavior of this type of lateral resisting systems is evaluated. The research conducted on a one bay steel braced frame with controlled rocking system that is analyzed using nonlinear dynamic time history analysis (NLTHA procedure. The frame is subjected to JMA-Kobe and Northridge ground motions records that are scaled to unit, 1.2 and 1.5 times of maximum considered earthquake (MCE ground motion level intensity. Extracted results show that seismic behavior of this type of lateral force resisting systems are so desirable even under MCE ground motion levels. The only anxiety is about occurring fatigue in post-tensioned strands that endangers overall stability of system.

  9. Accumulation of some metals by legumes and their extractability from acid mine spoils

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Taylor, R.W.; Ibeabuchi, I.O.; Sistani, K.R.; Shuford, J.W.

    1992-01-01

    A greenhouse study was conducted to investigate the growth (dry matter yield) of selected legume cover crops; phytoaccumulation of metals such as Zn, Mn, Pb, Cu, Ni, and Al; the extractability of heavy metals from three different Alabama acid mine spoils. The spoils were amended based on soil test recommended levels of N, P, K, Ca and Mg prior to plant growth. Metals were extracted by three extractants (Mehlich 1, DTPA, and 0.1 M HCl) and values correlated with their accumulation by the selected legumes. Among the cover crops, kobe lespedeza Lespedeza striata (Thung.) Hook and Arn, sericea lespedeza Lespedeza cuneata (Dum.) G. Don, and red clover (Trifolium pratense L.) did not survive the stressful conditions of the spoils. However, cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) followed by 'Bragg' soybean Glycine max (L.) Merr. generally produced the highest dry matter yield while accumulating the largest quantity of metals, except Al, from spoils. The extractability of most metals from the spoils was generally in the order of: 0.1 MHCl > DTPA. Mehlich 1 did not extract Pb and 0.1 M HCl did not extract Ni, whereas DTPA extracted all the metals in a small amount relative to HCl and Mehlich 1. All the extractants were quite effective in removing plant-available Zn from the spoils. In general, the extractants' ability to predict plant-available metals depended on the crop species, spoil type, and extractant used. 28 refs., 4 tabs

  10. On the channel box for the fuel bundle of BWR

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Yokoyama, Hiroomi; Yamamoto, Takeo

    1976-01-01

    Channel boxes play the important roles of making coolant flow uniform and protecting fuel rods as the component of fuel assemblies for BWRs. About ten years ago, the domestic production of channel boxes was first investigated, and now, the original technology has been developed, and the channel boxes sufficiently satisfying the required quality can be produced. The actual experience by being charged in reactors has also been accumulated. At present, the supply capacity is almost sufficient to meet the domestic demand, and the future increase of demand can be dealt with promptly. The channel boxes are made of Zircaloy-4 plates which are favorable in view of neutron absorption, and are the boxes with 138 mm hollow square section, 2 mm thickness, and 4240 mm length. Two channels were welded together and made into a box. In order to eliminate the residual stress caused during the manufacture, high temperature heating with an electric furnace was adopted. The measurement of dimensions and the inspection of appearance of the channel boxes after irradiation proved that they were rather superior to imported ones. The production processes, the system for the quality guarantee, and the quality control in the Kobe Steel Ltd. are explained. The test and inspection are carried out at the time of accepting outside products, before starting the production, after the completion of longitudinal welding and after the completion of production. (Kako, I.)

  11. Clinical factors associated with shock in bacteremic UTI.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Shigemura, Katsumi; Tanaka, Kazushi; Osawa, Kayo; Arakawa, Sochi; Miyake, Hideaki; Fujisawa, Masato

    2013-06-01

    Urinary tract infection (UTI) often causes bacteremia, resulting in shock. The purpose of this study is to investigate urological bacteremia and bacteremia shock cases and seek for the clinical factors associated with urological bacteremic shock. Seventy consecutive cases with bacteremia caused by UTI from the Department of Urology, Kobe University Hospital were studied. These cases were diagnosed from 2000 to 2010 and had full data available for analysis. We investigated the potential clinical factors associated with bacteremic shock (systolic blood pressure ≤ 90 mmHg with UTI), including: (1) the number of basal general diseases (such as diabetes, malignancy, immune diseases, heart diseases, liver diseases, and kidney diseases), (2) causative bacteria, (3) antibiotics and therapeutic intervention, (4) gram-negative bacteria, (5) resistance to imipenem (which is often used in this infection), and (6) serum white blood cell counts and C-reactive protein (CRP) at the time of diagnosis of bacteremic UTI. A total of 81 causative bacteria were isolated: 42 cases were gram-negative and 39 were gram-positive bacteria. In detail, Escherichia coli was the most common, followed by Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. The comparison data revealed that urological bacteremic shock cases had significantly increased CRP (p UTI was a significant clinical factor associated with urological bacteremic shock (p = 0.04). Indwelling urinary catheters before UTI and high CRP were clinical factors associated with urological bacteremic shock. This result should be considered during decision-making for UTI treatments in high risk cases or urological bacteremia cases.

  12. Preliminary map of peak horizontal ground acceleration for the Hanshin-Awaji earthquake of January 17, 1995, Japan - Description of Mapped Data Sets

    Science.gov (United States)

    Borcherdt, R.D.; Mark, R.K.

    1995-01-01

    The Hanshin-Awaji earthquake (also known as the Hyogo-ken Nanbu and the Great Hanshin earthquake) provided an unprecedented set of measurements of strong ground shaking. The measurements constitute the most comprehensive set of strong- motion recordings yet obtained for sites underlain by soft soil deposits of Holocene age within a few kilometers of the crustal rupture zone. The recordings, obtained on or near many important structures, provide an important new empirical data set for evaluating input ground motion levels and site amplification factors for codes and site-specific design procedures world wide. This report describes the data used to prepare a preliminary map summarizing the strong motion data in relation to seismicity and underlying geology (Wentworth, Borcherdt, and Mark., 1995; Figure 1, hereafter referred to as Figure 1/I). The map shows station locations, peak acceleration values, and generalized acceleration contours superimposed on pertinent seismicity and the geologic map of Japan. The map (Figure 1/I) indicates a zone of high acceleration with ground motions throughout the zone greater than 400 gal and locally greater than 800 gal. This zone encompasses the area of most intense damage mapped as JMA intensity level 7, which extends through Kobe City. The zone of most intense damage is parallel, but displaced slightly from the surface projection of the crustal rupture zone implied by aftershock locations. The zone is underlain by soft-soil deposits of Holocene age.

  13. Fiscal 1998 R and D report on human feeling measurement application technology. Pt. 1. Outline; 1998 nendo ningen kankaku keisoku oyo gijutsu no kenkyu kaihatsu itaku kenkyu seika hokokusho. 1. Gaiyohen

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1999-03-01

    This report outlines the fiscal 1998 R and D result on human feeling measurement application technology. For development of assessment technology of the impact of work fatigue on human feeling (human feeling index), and assessment technology of the adaptability and affinity between human being and environment or product (environment and product adaptability index), data storage and evaluation by measuring experiment of human feeling, and modification of every index toward the final index based on the above data were carried out. Further case studies were carried out to reflect the above both indices to design of living products or residence and office environments, and new data were also collected. The database model for using previously collected human feeling data effectively, and the sweating manikin for estimating human thermal feeling reasonably were developed. In addition, the human feeling measurement manual was prepared to diffuse these technologies. The R and D system is also described. (NEDO)

  14. Fiscal 1999 achievement report on research and development of industrial technologies. Research and development of synergy ceramics; 1999 nendo sangyo kagaku gijutsu kenkyu kaihatsu seika hokokusho. Synergy ceramics no kenkyu kaihatsu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    2001-03-01

    Efforts are conducted in the two fields of (1) survey and research and (2) development of technology for evaluating high temperature dynamic corrosion characteristics of heat resistant ceramics. In field (1), a comprehensive survey is conducted, an application study is conducted about high temperature gas separating ceramic membranes, and efforts are made to put to practical use ceramic parts manufactured by a low cost production process. In the application study of ceramic membranes, technologies are developed for a process of manufacturing high temperature gas separating porous ceramic membranes capable of separating and purifying gas emissions and gas ingredients, which involves the development of technologies for improving on gas separation and purification functions, development of technology of providing catalyst support function, technology of porous membrane formation, evaluation of separation characteristics, and so forth. In an application study for ceramic parts manufactured by a low cost manufacturing process, which involves structural ceramics, optimization is accomplished for materials synthesizing technologies by means of mechanical alloying, and cylinder liners are fabricated and evaluated for a natural gas engine made of silicon nitride based ceramics. In field (2), a high temperature dynamic corrosion testing device is built for heat shield coatings. (NEDO)

  15. Research and development of basic technologies for the next generation industries, 'ultra-grid elements'. Evaluation on the research and development; Jisedai sangyo kiban gijutsu kenkyu kaihatsu 'chokoshi soshi'. Kenkyu kaihatsu hyoka

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1991-04-01

    Research, development and evaluation were performed with an objective of establishing the basic technology related to ultra-grid elements. With regard to the process technology to search materials suitable for the targets of ultra-grid elements and manufacture ultra-grid element structure, a technology has been completed, by which crystalline growth is performed while controlling AlAs and GaAs at atom layer levels by using the MBE process and MOCVD process. This has allowed the understanding to be progressed on behavior of electrons in hetero interface or very thin films. It has also become possible to acquire new crystals that have band gaps and grid constants matching the performance of the elements. Regarding ultra-grid functional elements, new functional elements with the HET and RHET structures were made by utilizing the characteristics of the ultra grids, and performances of normal temperature operation and high speed operation were investigated. The ultra-grid structured elements have made it possible to embed ultra fine electrode structure into crystals by means of double hetero growth, and a possibility of Si-based PBT was demonstrated. These achievements lead to a belief that the targets intended at the beginning of the present research have been achieved. (NEDO)

  16. Research and development of system to utilize photovoltaic energy. Study on large-scale PV power supply system; Taiyoko hatsuden riyo system no kenkyu kaihatsu. Taiyo energy kyokyu system no chosa kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Tatsuta, M [New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization, Tokyo (Japan)

    1994-12-01

    This paper reports the study results on large-scale PV power supply systems in fiscal 1994. (1) On optimization of large-scale systems, the conceptual design of the model system was carried out which supposes a large-scale integrated PV power generation system in desert area. As a result, a pair of 250kW generation system was designed as minimum one consisting power unit. Its frame and construction method were designed considering weather conditions in the inland of China. (2) On optimization of large-scale transmission systems, as large-scale power transmission systems for PV power generation, the following were studied: AC aerial transmission, DC aerial transmission, superconducting transmission, hydrogen gas pipeline, and LH2 tanker transport. (3) On the influence of large-scale systems, it was estimated that emission control is expected by substituting PV power generation for coal fired power generation, the negative influence on natural environment cannot be supposed, and the favorable economic effect is expected as influence on social environment. 4 tabs.

  17. Achievement report for fiscal 1992. Research and development of ceramic gas turbine (Study on its adaptability with society); 1992 nendo ceramic gas turbine no kenkyu kaihatsu seika hokokusho. Shakai tekigosei kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1993-05-01

    With an objective to attain a guideline for putting ceramic gas turbine (CGT) into practical application, conceptual discussions on the CGT based industrial cogeneration system (CGS) and the CGT based CGS simulations were performed to discuss quantitatively the effects of the system introduction, and estimate latent markets based on the result of calculating the introduction effects. In addition, investigations were carried out on Germany as the advanced nation with regard to the systems according to utilization patterns, load profiles, operation cost, exhaust gas measures, and the related laws and regulations. The activities may be summarized specifically as follows: 1) putting the back-data for industrial energy demand into order; 2) calculation of CGT introduction effects in industrial areas; 3) discussions on latent demand and social adaptability of CGT in the industrial area; and 4) investigations in overseas countries. Item 2 is composed of the conceptual design of industrial CGT/CGS, and the simulations on the actual status of energy demand in industrial business operation centers and on the effects of the industrial CGT/CGS. (NEDO)

  18. Research on fabrication technology for thin film solar cells for practical use. Survey on the commercialization analysis; Usumaku taiyo denchi seizo gijutsu no jitsuyoka kenkyu. Jitsuyoka kaiseki ni kansuru chosa kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Tatsuta, M [New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization, Tokyo (Japan)

    1994-12-01

    This paper reports the survey results on the technological trend, safety and latest technologies of thin film solar cells in fiscal 1994. As the fabrication technology for amorphous film solar cells, three-electrode plasma CVD was surveyed as fabrication method for high-mobility materials, and hydrogen radical CVD as fabrication method for high-photostable films. Current foreign and domestic reliability tests were surveyed for reliability evaluation of solar cells. In order to ascertain the performance, efficiency, physical properties and optimum structure of polycrystalline Si thin film solar cells, previously reported test results on physical properties such as carrier concentration, carrier lifetime and mobility of films were surveyed together with device simulation results. In addition, technologies for high-efficiency CuInSe2 system and CdTe system solar cells, technologies for cost reduction and mass production, and environmental influence were surveyed. Estimation of production costs for cell modules, and safety of thin film solar cells were also surveyed.

  19. Achievement report for fiscal 1990. Research and development of ceramic gas turbine (Study on its adaptability with society); 1990 nendo ceramic gas turbine no kenkyu kaihatsu seika hokokusho. Shakai tekigosei kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1991-05-01

    With an objective to assist proliferation of ceramic gas turbine (CGT) which is desired of being put into practical use at an early time because of its effects of energy conservation, environmental preservation, and economic influence, investigations and studies were made on the CGT systems for cogeneration and portable power generation with regard to their latent markets, utilization patterns, and durability. In Section 1, investigations were given on stocking quantity by size in civil use buildings as the back-data for identification of effects by CGT and for estimation of its proliferation; identification of electric power to heat ratio (heat quantity/electric power amount) and patterns in use of energy in industries promising in CGT introduction; and on stocking quantity, energy demand and utilization patterns in industrial facilities. In Section 2, discussions were given on heat-power characteristics of the CGT, and energy utilization systems as the feasibility study on applicability of the cogeneration using the CGT. In Section 3, discussions were given on corrosion resistance of non-oxide based ceramics in relation with durability of the CGT, and oxidation behavior of silicon carbides in high temperature steam. In Section 4, future investigation assignments were discussed. (NEDO)

  20. Achievement report for fiscal 1991. Research and development of ceramic gas turbine (Study on its adaptability with society); 1991 nendo ceramic tas turbine no kenkyu kaihatsu seika hokokusho. Shakai tekigosei kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1992-05-01

    With an objective to assist proliferation of ceramic gas turbine (CGT) which is desired of being put into practical use at an early time because of its effects of energy conservation and environmental preservation, discussions were given on the cogeneration system (CGS) with regard to the system design, the effect calculation and its latent markets. In Section 1, discussions were given on the energy demand characteristics in business facilities such as hotels and hospitals, and on the CGS using the CGT. Section 2 calculates effects of introducing the CGT/CGS in business facilities, Section 3 discusses the latent market quantity of the CGT/CGS for business facilities, and its social adaptability including the environmental load, Section 4 studies the CGT characteristics and the status of its development, Section 5 researches heat resistant ceramics members, and Section 6 considers the future GCT utilization fields and problems in its effective utilization. In Section 2, it was estimated that the maximum energy saving effect can reach 21% when a facility that has been operated on purchased electric power and town gas introduced a CGT/CGS system consisted mainly of an absorption type freezer and a boiler. (NEDO)

  1. Achievement report for fiscal 1989. Research and development of ceramic gas turbine (Study on its adaptability with society); 1989 nendo ceramic gas turbine no kenkyu kaihatsu seika hokokusho. Shakai tekigosei kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1990-05-01

    Ceramic gas turbine (CGT) is superior in the aspects of high efficiency, low pollution, multi-kind fuel performance, small size, and light weight. Its utilization field is broad, whereas putting it into practical use at an early time is desired from the viewpoints of energy conservation, reduction in CO2 emission, resource conservation, and economic influence. The utilization field of CGT may include cogeneration and portable power generator, but putting it into practical use requires that it be superior in environment protection performance such as gas exhaust, noise and vibration, economic performance, safety, and adaptability with the utilization fields. From such a viewpoint, discussions were given on its adaptability with the society based on different characteristics of the CGT, and other conditions such as related laws and regulations. The first edition investigated the developmental trends in ceramic materials, and the second edition studied the CGT utilizing systems, in particular, the status of utilization and proliferation of the current cogeneration systems. The edition evaluated various conditions required for conceptual design of the system. The third edition put into order the environmental regulations and future trends in order to identify the effect of introducing the CGT. (NEDO)

  2. Achievement report on developing superconductor power applied technologies in fiscal 1999 (2). Research and development of superconductor wire materials, research and development of superconductor power generators, research of total systems, research and development of freezing systems, and verification tests; 1999 nendo chodendo denryoku oyo gijutsu kaihatsu seika hokokusho. 2. Chodendo senzai no kenkyu kaihatsu / chodendo hatsudenki no kenkyu kaihatsu / total system no kenkyu / reito system no kenkyu kaihatsu / jissho shiken

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    2000-03-01

    With an objective to achieve higher efficiency, higher density, and higher stability in power systems, research and development has been performed on superconductor power generators. This paper summarizes the achievements thereof in fiscal 1999. A verification test was given on the rotor of an ultra high speed responding generator. In a sudden short circuit test using the different phase charging method, no anomalies were found such as quench generation and vibration changes, wherein the healthiness of the generator was verified. In the VVVF actuation test, knowledge was acquired on the actuation method when the ultra high speed responding generator is applied to a combined cycle plant. After the verification test has been completed, the disassembly inspections such as visual check and non-destructive test were performed. With regard to the vacuum leakage found in the rotor under very low temperatures, the causes were presumed and the countermeasures were discussed by observing the weld structures. In the design research, the conception design on the 200-MW pilot generator was reviewed by reflecting the results of the verification tests on the model generator. At the same time, trial design was made on a 600-MW target generator. In summarizing the overall research achievements, the achievements and evaluations were summarized on technological issues that have been allotted to each research member. (NEDO)

  3. Achievement report for fiscal 1998 on the development of superconductor power application technology. 2. Research and development of superconducting wire and superconductive power generator, research of total system, research and development of refrigeration system, and verification test; 1998 nendo chodendo denryoku oyo gijutsu kaihatsu seika hokokusho. 2. Chodendo senzai no kenkyu kaihatsu, chodendo hatsudenki no kenkyu kaihatsu, total sytsem no kenkyu, reito system no kenkyu kaihatsu, jissho shiken

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1999-03-01

    The slow excitation response type power generator is studied when the rotor and stator of a 70,000kW-class model are combinedly subjected to an on-site verification test, when a good result is obtained. The rotor is disassembled for inspection, and its members are found to be sound without any problem in terms of mechanical strength. The quick excitation response type is studied when a 70,000kW model is experimentally built and subjected to an on-site verification test after a rotation and excitation test in the factory, when the pilot machine concept design is reviewed. In the study of a total system, efforts continue for the review of the model machine test method, improvement on generator design and analytical methods, development of operating methods, and the effect of its introduction into the power system. Since a He-refrigerated system is requested to exhibit high reliability for application to power equipment and to be capable of continuous long-period operation, a system having constituents with their reliability enhanced and an appropriate redundant system is developed, and a verification study is under way which will continue for more than 10,000 hours. Described also is an oil-free low-temperature turbo refrigerator. The latest quick excitation response type rotor is also tested for verification. (NEDO)

  4. Report on results for fiscal 1997 on development of superconducting electric power application technology. Pt. 2. R and D of superconducting wire, R and D of superconducting generator, studies on total system, R and D of refrigeration system, and verification test; 1997 nendo chodendo denryoku oyo gijutsu kaihatsu seika hokokusho. Chodendo senzai no kenkyu kaihatsu, chodendo hatsudenki no kenkyu kaihatsu, total system no kenkyu, reito system no kenkyu kaihatsu, jissho shiken

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1998-09-01

    This report refers, continuously to the Part 1, to the in-situ verification test of the slow-response type model machine rotor and to the review of the conceptual design of the pilot machine. On the basis of the R and D results of various element technology/partial models obtained before the previous fiscal year, the design, manufacturing and factory test had been conducted for a 70,000kW class slow-response type model machine rotor. This year, an in-situ verification test was performed to complete the test of all planned test items. Using the technological results obtained in the design, manufacturing and test of the 70,000kW class model machine, the conceptual design is being reviewed of the 200,000kW class pilot machine. In the aspect of the functional design, accurate grasping of the thermal load is essential for the purpose of attaining a large capacity for a superconducting generator, as a part of which a thermal load analytical method was planned to be established for a torque tube heat exchanger. The reasonableness of the analysis was verified through a comparison with the factory test result of the 70,000kW class slow-response type rotor, indicating good agreement between the calculation result and the actual measurement, and enabling the result to be obtained that explains dependency of the thermal load on the number of revolution. (NEDO)

  5. Achievement report on developing superconductor power applied technologies in fiscal 1999 (1). Research and development of superconductor wire materials, research and development of superconductor power generators, research of total systems, research and development of freezing systems, and verification tests; 1999 nendo chodendo denryoku oyo gijutsu kaihatsu seika hokokusho. 1. Chodendo senzai no kenkyu kaihatsu / chodendo hatsudenki no kenkyu kaihatsu / total system no kenkyu / reito system no kenkyu kaihatsu / jissho shiken

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    2000-03-01

    With an objective to achieve higher efficiency, higher density, and higher stability in power systems, research and development has been performed on superconductor power applied technologies. This paper summarizes the achievements thereof in fiscal 1999. In research and development of the superconductor wire materials, decrease in loss and increase in capacity of the conductors were progressed for the Nb{sub 3}Sn wire material, whereas its mechanical properties and stability were evaluated. In research and development of the superconductor generators, an ultra high speed responding generator was verified of its healthiness in a sudden short circuit test. A linkage test with an operating 77-kV system was performed, wherein verification was given that the superconductor generator can be operated stably against various disturbances. In research and development of the freezing systems, an improved system was structured, which achieved operation of 11,390 hours in a single system as a result of the high reliability of the oil-free structure. In the verification tests, the ultra high speed responding model generator was connect to the freezing system to give such tests as load test, onerous test, actuation test by using the M-G system, and 77-kV system linkage test. The functions, reliability, and durability of the system were verified, and different data were acquired. (NEDO)

  6. FY 1998 annual report on the preliminary research and development of techniques for developing resources from gas-hydrate. Studies on gas-hydrate exploration, excavation techniques, methods for assessing environmental impacts, and gas hydrate handling systems; 1998 nendo gas hydrate shigenka gijutsu sendoken kaihatsu seika hokokusho. Tansanado ni kansuru kenkyu kaihatsu, kussaku gijutsu nado ni kansuru kenkyu kaihatsu, kankyo eikyo hyokaho no kenkyu kaihatsu, riyo system ni kansuru chosa kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1999-03-01

    This R and D project is for the preliminary studies on development of the following 4 types of techniques for developing resources from gas-hydrates (GH): (1) gas-hydrate exploration, (2) excavation techniques, (3) methods for assessing environmental impacts, and (4) gas hydrate handling systems. The FY 1988 R and D results are described. For gas-hydrate exploration, the methods for analyzing inorganic ions and trace quantities of elements, which are necessary for accurately estimating the offshore GH around Japan, are established; and case studies are conducted for methods of predicting GH deposit forming mechanisms, and stability fields of GH, based on terrestrial heat flow and seismic data. For excavation techniques, GH decomposition rate is analyzed using a laboratory system which reproduces conditions of excavation of GH layers. For methods for assessing environmental impacts, a geo-hazard predicting model is established, to study ground displacement and gas leakage sensing systems and data transmission systems to cope with the hazards. For gas hydrate handling systems, an overall system is studied, and storage and transportation systems are outlined. (NEDO)

  7. Comprehensive geriatric intervention program with and without weekly class-style exercise: research protocol of a cluster randomized controlled trial in Kyoto-Kameoka Study

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Watanabe Y

    2018-05-01

    Full Text Available Yuya Watanabe,1–4,* Yosuke Yamada,2,4,* Keiichi Yokoyama,2,5,6,* Tsukasa Yoshida,2,4,7 Yasuko Yoshinaka,5,6 Mie Yoshimoto,8 Yoko Tanaka,9 Aya Itoi,10 Emi Yamagata,11 Naoyuki Ebine,1 Kazuko Ishikawa-Takata,12 Misaka Kimura2,3 1Faculty of Health and Sports Science, Doshisha University, Kyotanabe, Japan; 2Laboratory of Applied Health Sciences, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan; 3Department of Health and Sports Sciences, Kyoto Gakuen University, Kameoka, Japan; 4Section of Healthy Longevity Research, National Institute of Health and Nutrition, National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health and Nutrition, Tokyo, Japan; 5Specified Non-profit Corporation Genki-up AGE Project, Kameoka, Japan; 6Department of Business Administration, Kyoto Gakuen University, Kyoto, Japan; 7Senior Citizen’s Welfare Section, Kameoka City Government, Kameoka, Japan; 8Corporation of Japan Dental Hygienists’ Association, Kyoto, Japan; 9Kyoto Dietetic Association, Kyoto, Japan; 10Department of Health, Sports and Nutrition, Faculty of Health and Welfare, Kobe Women’s University, Kobe, Japan; 11Faculty of Nursing, Doshisha Women’s College of Liberal Arts, Kyotanabe, Japan; 12Department of Nutrition and Metabolism, National Institute of Health and Nutrition, National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health and Nutrition, Tokyo, Japan *These authors contributed equally to this work Objective: The number of long-term care (LTC users and the associated expenditures in Japan are increasing dramatically. The national government recommends LTC prevention through activation of communities. However, there is no clear evidence of the effect of population-based comprehensive geriatric intervention program (CGIP for restraints of LTC users and the associated expenditures in the future. The aims of the current paper are to describe the study protocol and progress of a cluster randomized controlled trial (RCT with a CGIP in Kameoka City. Methods: The

  8. Fiscal 2000 regional consortium research and development project - regional new technology creation research and development. Practicalization of polymer back light (1st fiscal year); 2000 nendo chiiki consortium kenkyu kaihatsu jigyo - chiiki shingijutsu soshutsu kenkyu kaihatsu bun'ya seika hokokusho. Polymer back light no jitsuyoka ni kansuru kenkyu (daiichi nendo)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    2001-03-01

    Efforts are being exerted to develop technologies for fabricating polyvinyl carbazole thin film, 100 nm or less in average thickness and 400 mm square in area, for the construction of an exothermal sheet utilizing polymer semiconductor light emission diodes. Activities are conducted in the three fields of (1) the development of large area light emission sheets for use in polymer LEDs (light emission diodes), (2) the study of manufacturing technologies, and (3) the study of technologies for testing, analyzing, and evaluating the material. In field (1), a polyvinyl carbazole thin film is fabricated by the use of a low viscosity resin liquid application method, and a film fabrication technique is established for fabricating a thin film on a 400 mm square substrate within {+-}3 nm of film thickness error. In field (2), studies are conducted of an integrated large area thin film application/transportation system, application device mechanisms, and control sequences for application devices. Through studies of technical literature, exhibitions, and research institute meetings in Japan and overseas, it is concluded that the polymer back light is commercially feasible. (NEDO)

  9. Fiscal 2000 achievement report on research and development of industrial technologies. Research and development of synergy ceramics (Research and development of ultrahigh temperature gas turbine for power generation); 2000 nendo sangyo kagaku gijutsu kenkyu kaihatsu seika hokokusho. Synergy ceramics no kenkyu kaihatsu (hatsuden'yo chokoon gas turbine no kenkyu kaihatsu)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    2001-03-01

    The fruits of fiscal 2000 efforts to develop high temperature energy materials and ultraprecision materials are briefly described. Activities are conducted in the four fields of (1) materials derivation and advanced evaluation/design technologies, (2) application technologies, (3) common base technologies, and (4) multifunction realization process evaluation. Discussed in field (1) are high temperature energy materials, high performance active materials, fundamental technologies for member designing, active materials for dealing with environmental gas, silicon based high resistance energy materials, porous multiple layer ceramic materials, macro-/micro-scale stress analysis technology, and microfracture analysis technology. Discussed in field (2) are heat resistant and damage tolerant materials, heat shielding materials and energy absorbing materials, and nanofilter materials capable of selective separation. In the study of active materials specific for environmental gas, a catalyst is developed, stable at high temperatures and capable of treating NOx selectively. The catalyst is a layered product comprising Ba hexaaluminate layers and stabilized zirconia layers. (NEDO)

  10. Achievement report for fiscal 1981 on Sunshine Program research and development of photovoltaic power systems. Research and development of amorphous solar cells (Research on amorphous silicon defect density); 1981 nendo taiyoko hatsuden system no kenkyu kaihatsu seika hokokusho. Amorphous taiyo denchi no kenkyu kaihatsu (Amorphous silicon no kekkan mitsudo no kenkyu)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1982-03-01

    So as to determine the energy distribution of defect level density in a-Si, which is indispensable for an optimum solar cell design, the hitherto unclear theoretical relationship between the field effect method and MOS (metal oxide semiconductor) capacity method is made clear, and a unified theory is newly established. A high-speed totally automatic evaluation system is developed, capable of high-accuracy determination of defect levels. For the realization of an a-Si MOS structure required for fulfilling the above purpose, a-Si is grown and then diborane and ammonia are subjected to a glow discharge decomposition process for the formation of a new insulation film. It is found that the material may be utilized for MOS structure construction for defect density evaluation. Studies are conducted on plasma emission spectroscopy and infrared absorption analysis for the elucidation of growth mechanism for the growth of high-quality a-Si. Key radicals in plasma that govern film growth are investigated. It is disclosed that excited hydrogen in plasma plays an important part in microcrystalline phase deposition. It is also disclosed that hydrogenation greatly improves on CVD (chemical vapor deposition) a-Si doping efficiency. (NEDO)

  11. FY 1996 R/D project of industrial and scientific technologies contracted with NEDO. Report on R/D of organosilicon polymers; 1996 nendo sangyo kagaku gijutsu kenkyu kaihatsu jigyo Shin energy Sangyo Gijutsu Sogo Kaihatsu Kiko itaku. Keisokei kobunshi zairyo no kenkyu kaihatsu (Keisokei kobunshi zairyo no kenkyu kaihatsu) seika hokokusho

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1997-12-01

    Organosilicon polymers are highly innovative materials having high performance and novel functions, and they can be widely applied. The purpose of this study is to establish fundamental techniques for molecular design, synthesis, material processing and evaluation of organosilicon polymers having excellent electro- and photo-functions, and advanced heat-proof, fire-proof and mechanical properties. This R/D includes (1) R/D of electrical conducting materials by organosilicon polymers, (2) R/D of novel organosilicon polymers applicable to direct lithography, (3) R/D of new silicon-based polymer materials with electro-luminous function, and (4) R/D of silicon-based polymers for new photoconductive materials. In (1), synthesis of highly conjugated polymers is investigated. In (2), novel organosilicon polymeric materials have been developed, which would be applicable to direct lithography of electronic circuits, and which could contribute to simplification of the circuit formation process. In (3), the research aims at development of new silicon-based polymer materials with luminescent function which can be applied to the large size electro-luminescent display devices. In (4), new materials with visible light absorption have been synthesized through the molecular design and synthesis. The photo-carrier generation was observed. 107 refs., 86 figs., 23 tabs.

  12. Fiscal 2000 achievement report on research and development of industrial technologies. Research and development of synergy ceramics (Research and development of ultrahigh temperature gas turbine for power generation); 2000 nendo sangyo kagaku gijutsu kenkyu kaihatsu seika hokokusho. Synergy ceramics no kenkyu kaihatsu (hatsuden'yo chokoon gas turbine no kenkyu kaihatsu)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    2001-03-01

    The fruits of fiscal 2000 efforts to develop high temperature energy materials and ultraprecision materials are briefly described. Activities are conducted in the four fields of (1) materials derivation and advanced evaluation/design technologies, (2) application technologies, (3) common base technologies, and (4) multifunction realization process evaluation. Discussed in field (1) are high temperature energy materials, high performance active materials, fundamental technologies for member designing, active materials for dealing with environmental gas, silicon based high resistance energy materials, porous multiple layer ceramic materials, macro-/micro-scale stress analysis technology, and microfracture analysis technology. Discussed in field (2) are heat resistant and damage tolerant materials, heat shielding materials and energy absorbing materials, and nanofilter materials capable of selective separation. In the study of active materials specific for environmental gas, a catalyst is developed, stable at high temperatures and capable of treating NOx selectively. The catalyst is a layered product comprising Ba hexaaluminate layers and stabilized zirconia layers. (NEDO)

  13. FY 1997 R/D project of industrial and scientific technologies contracted with NEDO. Report on R/D of organosilicon polymers; 1997 nendo sangyo kagaku gijutsu kenkyu kaihatsu jigyo Shin energy Sangyo Gijutsu Sogo Kaihatsu Kiko itaku. Keisokei kobunshi zairyo no kenkyu kaihatsu (keisokei kobunshi zairyo no kenkyu kaihatsu) seika hokokusho

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1998-03-01

    The purpose of this study is to establish fundamental techniques for molecular design, synthesis, material processing and evaluation of organosilicon polymers having excellent electro- and photo-functions, and advanced heat-proof, fire-proof and mechanical properties. This R/D includes (1) R/D of electrical conducting materials by organosilicon polymers, (2) R/D of novel organosilicon polymers applicable to direct lithography, (3) R/D of new silicon-based polymer materials with electro-luminous function, and (4) R/D of silicon-based polymers for new photoconductive materials. In (1), synthesis method of regular polymers with a 3-D structure was developed. Non-volatile dopants were developed, and structures of polymer-dopant composites could be controlled. In (2), precise control of conductivity was examined. Material processing and evaluation techniques were also examined through stabilization of polysilane thin films, optimization of pattern forming conditions, and precision of patterns. In (3), new silicon-based polymers have been synthesized. In (4), two kinds of polymers have been synthesized for development of materials with high photo-carrier generation efficiency and high mobility. 72 refs., 71 figs., 22 tabs.

  14. FY 1980 Report on results of research and development project, commissioned by Sunshine Project. Researches on R and D of management procedures; 1980 nendo kenkyu kaihatsu kanri shuho no kenkyu seika hokokusho

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1981-03-01

    The strategic system planning procedures have been developed and applied for drafting R and D targets and subsequent medium-term plans, in order to help promote the Sunshine Project smoothly, based on the long-term prospects. This project compares the developed procedures with the current promotion systems and R and D management supporting procedures, to establish the strategic system planning procedures. These newly developed procedures are expected to accelerate the Sunshine Project, when applied in the standard manner. They are also partly applied to coal liquefaction techniques for (system demand analysis), the results of which are used to propose the ideal R and D targets of these techniques. The milestone planning procedures are preliminary applied to (establishing the project plans), to draw systematic long-, medium- and short-term plans. The preliminary application of these prediction/analysis and supporting procedures has verified effectiveness of the strategic system planning procedures. (NEDO)

  15. FY 1998 annual report on the research and development of advanced ceramic gas turbines. Study on social adaptability; 1998 nendo senshingata ceramic gas turbine no kenkyu kaihatsu seika hokokusho. Shakai tekigosei kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1999-03-01

    The New Sunshine Project, promoted by Ministry of International Trade and Industry, has developed a 300 kW ceramic gas turbine CGT302 (biaxial, regenerative type) in March 1999, which attains a turbine inlet temperature of 1,334 degrees C and thermal efficiency of 42.1%. The conditions of optimum utilization of the system are studied for eventual commercialization and spread of these systems, including analysis of load types for specific purposes, prediction of operation management, economics of CGT, environmental impacts, and possibility of diversification of the fuel. The CGT cost analysis results indicate that a CGT system is well viable when the incremental initial cost of the power generator is kept below 70,000 yen/kW over the conventional system. The system can be doubled in scale at the largest. It can be further scaled up, when hybrid members with metallic materials are used. CGT is a basic technique for (system energy). In other words, the 21st. century will be the age of (system energy), i.e., (gas turbine). (NEDO)

  16. Research and development of photovoltaic power system. Study on structural defects in silicon-based amorphous materials; Taiyoko hatsuden system no kenkyu kaihatsu. Amorphous silicon kei zairyo no kozo kekkan ni kansuru kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Shimizu, T [Kanazawa University, Ishikawa (Japan). Faculty of Engineering

    1994-12-01

    Described herein are the results of the FY1994 research program for structural defects of silicon-based amorphous materials for solar cells. The study on light generation defects of the a-Si:H system and rejuvenation process by annealing establishes the effects of light irradiation time on changed neutral dangling bond density as a result of light irradiation at varying temperature of 77K, room temperature and 393K. The study on annealing to rejuvenate light generation defects of various types of a-Si-H systems establishes the activation energy distribution with respect to annealing to remove light-induced defects, showing that hydrogen affects the distribution of light-induced defects. The study on decaying process of light-induced ESR for undoped and N-doped a-Si:H systems observes the decaying process of light-induced ESR, after light is cut off, extending for a period of several seconds to several hours at 77K for the a-Si-H systems containing N in a range from 0 to 12at%. The other results presented are space distribution of neutral defects of light-irradiated a-Si-H systems, and rejuvenation process of light-induced spin for the a-Si(1-x)N(x):H composition. 6 figs.

  17. Achievement report for fiscal 1998 on the research and development of quantum function device. Research on technological trend; 1998 nendo ryoshika kino soshi no kenkyu kaihatsu seika hokokusho. Gijutsu doko chosa kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1999-03-01

    To effectively promote the research and development of quantum function devices, the advancement of the research and development concerned is surveyed and problems in the course of research and development are isolated, analyzed, and discussed, and a survey is conducted on technological trends. Researches are conducted through research committee meetings, on-the-spot surveys of overseas activities, and international conferences. As the result, reports are compiled on the integration of multi-value logic devices using tunnelling control function devices, integration of logic memory devices based on quantum levels, integration of quantum interband coupled multifunction devices, silicon insulation film tunnel memory device, mass dot function memory, quantum wave switching function device, integration of single electron logic devices, integration of CMOS coupled type single electron devices, basic technology of single electron device, etc. As for common basic technology, an integrated device in which a quantum function element and CMOS are merged, superspeed quantum device using light, spontaneous formation of InGaN quantum dot and GaSb/GaAs quantum dot, electron moderation mechanism in quantum dot, etc., are compiled into reports. (NEDO)

  18. FY 1997 research and development of fusion domains. Part 3. Studies on next generation optical substrate technologies; 1997 nendo seika hokokusho (yugo ryoiki kenkyu kaihatsu). 3. Jisedai hikari kiban gijutsu no kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1998-03-01

    With an objective of realizing super large capacity recording technologies largely exceeding the current limits of optical recording and magnetic recording, studies were conducted on application of near-field optics. In the study on recording by using near-field light, it was verified that a mark with approximately the same size as an aperture diameter can be formed on a phase change recording film when a fiber probe with an aperture diameter of about 200 nm is used. However, it was found that the recording using this system takes excessive amount of time. When laser light collected on an objective lens was irradiated pulse-wise, a mark with a minimum width of about 20 nm was observed with high contrast. This will mean that a record with recording density of one terabit/in {sup 2} can be read out. Other studies performed include those on evaluation of effects of polarized light and surface shape on near-field read-out, simulation, mechanism of crystallization in a phase change recording film, recording and playback with ultra-high resolution by using a conformable near-field aperture, fabrication of a flat aperture type near-field light probe array, and the evaluation thereon. 22 refs., 27 figs.

  19. Leading research report for fiscal 1998 on the research on photofunctional materials for processing 2-dimensional data; 1998 nendo nijigen joho shoriyo hikari kino zairyo ni kansuru chosa kenkyu sendo kenkyu hokokusho

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1999-03-01

    Researches are conducted for the development of photofunctional materials, which will enable the utilization of such features of light as high speed, planar transmission, and space coupling, for the real-time processing of large-volume 2-dimensional image data etc. The researches cover the 'spatial light modulation material' and 'dynamic holographic memory material' which will be the key materials in the high-speed 2-dimensional data processing, and the 'optical waveguide material.' The 'spatial light modulation material' is a material that temporarily memorizes optical data for causing interference between images by use of light, the 'dynamic holographic memory material' is a material that memorizes phasal data of light and records and writes by use of light the large-volume data necessary for moving picture processing, and the 'optical waveguide material' is a material that transmits multi-dimensional picture data on the real-time basis. Researches are also conducted on the status of research and development of technologies involving novel photofunctional materials, the control of the structure of their electrode/molecule boundary, the creation of ultrastructural materials by molecular arrangement control, etc. (NEDO)

  20. Fiscal 1997 report on the R and D under consignment from NEDO on human sensory measurement application technology; 1997 nendo ningen kankaku keisoku oyo gijutsu no kenkyu kaihatsu itaku kenkyu seika hokokusho

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1998-03-01

    The paper outlined the result of the fiscal 1997 R and D on `human sensory measurement application technology (HSMAT)` which entered into the second stage. As to the R and D of technology for development of human sensory indices, examples for developing human sensory indices were set up for the following each technology to be developed, and measuring experiments were conducted: technology to assess the effect on physiological senses such as fatigue and awakening, technology to assess human adaptability to various environmental conditions, and technology to assess adaptability of products to humans from a viewpoint of affinity, etc. In relation to the R and D of technology for practical application of human sensory indices, a study was conducted of application examples for using each index to the design of daily products and residential/working environments, and at the same time a prototype database of human sensory data was trially made using part of the experimental data. Moreover, for clothes and working environment to feel better, design/assembly were conducted of a hand/leg movable and sit-on-chair manikin which enables rational estimation of thermal sense of humans. 82 refs., 391 figs., 88 tabs.

  1. FY 1999 research cooperation in the development of the advanced multi-media information system. Results of the research; 1999 nendo senshinteki multimedia joho system no kaihatsu ni kansuru kenkyu kyoryoku. Kenkyu seika

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    2000-03-01

    'The research cooperation in the development of the advanced multi-media information system' for China was carried out, and the state of the FY 1999 study was summed up. As to the overall material flow system, conducted were the construction of the basic material flow system and the planning of the verification experiment. In relation to the education/culture information system, the design of the system structure of a remote education realtime system, design of the applied equipment, design of equipment layout, and development of the control program. Concerning the agriculture information system, the analysis of system needs, working-out of project concept, basic design of system, arrangement of hardware environment, and project management. About the disaster prevention/forest fire prevention information system, the analysis of system, construction/design of system, and construction of platform. In regard to the medical system, software was developed for high functional image sending/receiving function and high functional image processing. As to the environment monitor/flood monitor information system, the platform which is the basic structure was constructed. (NEDO)

  2. Investigation under international cooperation on the mentality/intellect-based technology. Development of mind-based technology; Shinsei chisei kiban gijutsu kokusai kyodo kenkyu chosa. Mind-Based Technology no kaihatsu ni kakawaru kenkyu chosa

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1994-03-01

    The mind-based technology (MBT) was investigated to be developed, for materializing the world where the human race and machinery live together without sense of incompatibility. Based on the human mind, the MBT is a technology to support the personal expression which respects the value judgment, diversity and individuality in the human life. For it, it is important to technologically comprehend the human mind and physiological/psychological state, and particularly, control the human will. In order to structure the social system in which the human race and technology live together, it is also important to build a life system information processing model which simulates the formation process to integrate the feeling, knowledge and conscience, together with an action system to be established. As an image to which the MBT is applied, support will be extended to the life fulfillment, personal expression and hearty communication. Development is expected toward the social security technology with robots living in the human society. Pursuing the mental richness and worthwhile life, the high-grade mature society needs the technology to communicate with the machinery gentle to the human race on the mutual interface. 21 refs., 8 figs.

  3. Fiscal 1999 research cooperation on the development of an advanced multimedia information system. Cooperation on joint research; 1999 nendo senshinteki multimedia joho system no kaihatsu ni kansuru kenkyu kyoryoku. Kyodo kenkyu kyoryoku

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    2000-03-01

    This report covers fiscal 1999 activities under a 5-year program which is a joint effort with China started in fiscal 1998 for the development and verification of a prototype for the above-named system to comprehensively deal with commodity distribution information, education and culture information, agriculture information, disaster/forest fire control information, medical treatment information, and environment monitor/flood watch information. A total of 12 Chinese researchers were invited to this country over the systems for disaster/forest fire control information and environment monitor/flood watch information, when the status in Japan and progress in China of the research were discussed. Joint research in China involved on-site surveys conducted relative to systems for commodity distribution information, education and culture information, medical treatment information, and environment monitor/flood watch information. Endeavors were then exerted, which concerned the survey of candidate locations for distribution centers, acknowledgement of the result of verification tests, training for equipment operation, arrangements for the contents of research, and the establishment of a mutual understanding toward the signing of annexes to the Agreement. (NEDO)

  4. Achievement report for fiscal 1981 on research under Sunshine Program. Basic research on high-calorie gas production technology; 1981 nendo sunshinte keikaku kenkyu seika hokokusho. Kokarori gas seizo gijutsu no kiso kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1982-03-01

    Test and research are conducted for acquiring basic data regarding coal gasification. In the basic research for the development of a high-calorie gas production process, a small moving bed gas furnace is improved, and a high-calorie gas of a heating value of approximately 5,100kcal/m{sup 3} is stably produced at a rate of approximately 20m{sup 3} per diem. The carbon conversion rate turns out to be approximately 37% for the gas, approximately 53% for the residual char, and approximately 10% for a mixture of tar, naphthalene, benzene, phenol, etc. Hydrogen is produced making use of the residual char when a small amount of coal is added, and it is deemed that the first experiment for the development of a moving bed hydrogasification process has been successfully completed. In the study of the mechanism of hydrogasification reaction, the result of a preliminary experiment in a fixed bed pressurized gasification furnace is compared with the data from a continuous gasification experiment, and the relationship is determined between the coal feed rate and the reaction rate. Conducted besides are a basic study of problems relating to operation, basic research on a reaction mechanism (carbonization by rapid heating), estimation of the equilibrium composition of gas generated by coal gasification, etc. (NEDO)

  5. Systematic analysis on mooring systems of floating structures; Futai keiryuho ni kansuru keitoteki kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Yoshida, K; Suzuki, H; Ide, T [The University of Tokyo, Tokyo (Japan)

    1997-12-31

    Discussed herein are mooring performance requirements of the new types of marine structures now proposed, and characteristic ranges and future expansion potential of the existing mooring systems. The mooring systems studied for floating structures are catenary, single point (multi-leg and single-leg types), fixed structure with fender and tension leg mooring systems. The studied items include extraction of the elements that constitute rigidity of the spring for horizontal mooring, survey on and data collection for each element, determination of element ranges, programs for mooring analysis, assessment of mooring characteristic ranges, and potential development of the characteristic ranges. It is concluded that the existing systems with their current characteristic ranges and future possibility are insufficient for the future marine structures. It is therefore necessary to develop new mooring concepts, instead of expanding the current concepts, in order to meet the mooring performance requirements for the new marine structures. 14 refs., 9 figs., 11 tabs.

  6. Demonstration of energy-saving construction works; Shoshigenka wo mezashita kenchiku koji no jissho kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kobayashi, T.; Yamagishi, M.; Kakimi, S. [Chubu Electric Power Co. Inc., Nagoya (Japan)

    1997-11-01

    Studies are conducted to promote energy-saving in construction works as part of environment protection programs. The first phase is for survey and analysis works for energy-saving in the current building design and construction works, and for processes, procedures and materials in model works (construction of sub-stations). The second phase is for studying energy-saving designs, materials and procedures, which are applied to model works, to assess their energy-saving effects , costs and applicability. The horizontally developed samples are prepared for the future development, based on the `continuous improvement of environment-management systems by establishing the PDCA cycles,` which is one of the basic requirements of the ISO14001 (environment management system). These efforts have reduced CO2 emissions associated with the manufacture of construction materials by 20%, mixed wastes by 45%, and plywood frame requirement by 70%. It is also confirmed that they can be realized at only around 3% higher cost. 9 refs., 10 figs., 3 tabs.

  7. Layered multinary lanthanum oxide [La-Mo-O]; Sojo rantan fukugo sankabutsu ni kansuru kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1997-10-31

    Studies have been carried out systematically on properties of oxides including representative transition metal, vanadium, and alkali metals. With respect to Ln2CuO4 (Ln is a rare earth element) being a simple and representative rare earth multinary oxide showing superconductivity, and its related compounds, this paper reports thermal chemistry, superconduction, and making them a superconductor by using soft chemical treatment. The paper also reports centrally on synthesis of new copper oxide superconductors under high pressure, the compositions, structures, superconductive properties of the synthetics, and the relationship between them. It describes phase equilibrium, synthesis, and structures of vanadium multinary oxides being the object of continued studies, and also reports the studies related to structure and phase transfer of NaV6O11 which shows especially interesting properties among the oxides. Studies have also been made on NMR of these compounds and copper oxide superconductors by using magnetic resonance. The paper also describes a method to analyze the structure of quasi-crystal having rotary symmetry which is not allowed in crystals, and has special long-distance order phase. 209 refs., 127 figs., 6 tabs.

  8. Relationship between stacking process and resolution; Jugo shori to bunkaino ni kansuru kiso kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Matsushima, J; Rokugawa, S; Kato, Y [Geological Survey of Japan, Tsukuba (Japan); Yokota, T; Miyazaki, T [The University of Tokyo, Tokyo (Japan). Faculty of Engineering

    1996-10-01

    This paper evaluates influences of stacking of incident angles against the reflecting surface on the resolution. Basic equations for evaluating the influences were deduced. A simple evaluation method has been provided using these equations. The present evaluation method is considered to be useful for acquisition design, processing, and interpretation of data as an indicator. According to the equations introduced in this study, there are some demerits for stacking traces whose incident angles were large. A total reflection region often appears due to the decreased resolution, and the vertical resolution decreases prior to stacking. Occasionally, it is not effective to remove traces having large incident angles from the viewpoint of resolution. In practice, the selection of most suitable trace through trial and error is not easy due to difference in individual regions. An evaluation method must be discussed, by which the optimal trace can be selected automatically during the data processing. 6 refs., 15 figs.

  9. Needs/seeds research committee of welfare apparatus; Fukushi kiki needs seeds tekigo chosa kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1996-03-01

    As to the development of welfare apparatus, a study was made on the present status of the periphery environment, problems, measures and policies. As subjects in production, the following were pointed out: small scale of the market, lots of brands/small quantity of production, various corporate sizes in the industry, no competition among countries, modular structuring, etc. As to the standardization, the necessity was asserted for the following: rationalization of production/consumption, security of product quality, provision of standards for accurate judgement of the purchase, simplification of inspection under the Pharmaceutical Law, benefit systems. In relation to evaluation/technical guidance, details of the evaluation, persons involved in the evaluation, and the evaluation form were arranged including not only the evaluation of individual tools, but grasp of the needs, selection of themes, and technical guidance under the development. The fundamental development of the welfare apparatus is being conducted in universities, national research institutes, etc., and necessities were pointed out for a study of trial use of the apparatus as a step next to the prototype making, and a system to support makers for the period from after the development up to the commercialization. 5 refs., 8 figs., 26 tabs.

  10. Research study on highly functional carbon related materials; Tansokei kokino zairyo no chosa kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1997-03-01

    The study results on highly functional carbon related materials are reported as a part of the leading research in fiscal 1996. Synthesis of these novel materials is outlined, and R & D results on the following materials are described: diamond, hetero-diamond, graphite, amorphous carbon, carbyne, fullerences, carbon nitride and chemically modified carbon materials. Their issues, future possibility and market in 2010 are also described. The markets are predicted of such electronic materials as electronic emitter, sensor, solid device and heat sink, such optical materials as X-ray lithography, and such chemical materials as electrode and catalyst. Promising characteristics of light-weight and high-hardness machine materials are presented, and some issues such as material synthesis, and intensive machining and application technologies are described. The future markets are predicted of their applications to tools, dies, information equipment, glass, automobiles, aircraft, spacecraft and industrial machines. Problems and their break through techniques of these novel materials are also presented. 220 refs., 68 figs., 16 tabs.

  11. Research on linear driving of wave maker; Zoha sochi no linear drive ka kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Yamamoto, I; Taniguchi, S; Nohara, T [Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd., Tokyo (Japan)

    1997-10-01

    The water tank test of marine structures or submarine structures uses a wave maker to generate waves. A typical flap wave maker uses the wave making flap penetrating a water surface whose bottom is fixed on a tank bottom through a hinge, and the top is connected with a rod driven by rotating servomotor for reciprocating motion of the flap. However, this driving gear using a rotating servomotor and a bowl- screw has some defects such as noise caused by bowl rotation, backlash due to wear and limited driving speed. A linear motor with less friction mechanisms was thus applied to the driving gear. The performance test result of the prototype driving gear using a linear motor showed the possibility of the linear driven wave maker. The linear driven wave maker could also achieve low noise and simple mechanism. The sufficient durability and applicability of the linear driven wave maker mechanism were confirmed through strength calculation necessary for improving the prototype wave maker. 1 ref., 5 figs., 2 tabs.

  12. Leading research on brain functional information processing; No kino joho shori no sendo kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1997-03-01

    This research aims at searching the concept of an information processing device with a fully different architecture from a previous ones based on the study on human brain function, sense and perception, and developing the basic fabrication technology for such system, and realizing the human-like information processing mechanism of memorization, learning, association, perception, intuition and value judgement. As an approach deriving biological and technological models from experimental brain studies, the model was derived from the brain functional information processing based on brain development/differentiation mechanism, the control mechanism/material of brain activities, and the knowledge obtained from brain measurement and study. In addition, for understanding a brain oscillation phenomenon by computational neuroscience, the cerebral cortex neural network model composed of realistic neuron models was proposed. Evaluation of the previous large-scale neural network chip system showed its ability of learning and fast processing, however, the next-generation brain computer requires further R and D of some novel architecture, device and system. 184 refs., 41 figs., 2 tabs.

  13. Study on accretion of ice on oscillating aerofoils; Shindoyokujo no chakuhyo ni kansuru kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Nishikawa, S; Sugihara, H [Kandenko Co. Ltd., Tokyo (Japan); Kimura, S; Sugiyama, Y [Kanagawa Institute of Technology, Kanagawa (Japan); Tsuboi, K [Ibaraki University, Ibaraki (Japan). Faculty of Engineering

    1997-11-25

    The effects of pitching and heaving motions of an aerofoil on accretion of ice thereon are investigated for the design of wind turbine blades. The conditions under which an aerofoil shows a heaving motion are 10m/s as wind velocity, -12degC as ambient temperature, 0.5Hz as frequency and 5mm as amplitude. Initial growth of ice is stochastic to a great extent; ice grows rapidly around the seed which is formed by chance somewhere on an laerofoil. The effects of ice appear in the flow field in the vicinity of the aerofoil front edge, as it continues to grow, providing different conditions for water droplets to collide with each other. Average ice shapes can be classified by environment, although at low repeatability. Range of ice accretion varies depending on aerofoil motion, whether it is pitching, heaving or at rest. The most important factor that determines behavior of ice accretion is conditions of the flow field near the aerofoil front edge. In a pitching or heaving motion, its speed is an important factor for growth of ice. 2 refs., 5 figs.

  14. Research and development project plans for FY 1995; 1995 nendo kenkyu kaihatsu jigyo keikaku

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1995-04-01

    The present research and development project plans for FY 1995 administrated by NEDO consist of research and development of new energy, and research and development of industrial technology. Are illustrated further enhancement of new energy introduction promotion measures, new stage of international projects, promotion of new energy and new energy technology development, further enhancement of industrial and scientific technology research and development, integrated measures against global and urban environment problems, and budget of NEDO projects in FY 1995. The research and development of new energy includes coal conversion technology, solar energy technology, geothermal energy technology, energy conversion and storage technology, hydrogen, alcohol and biomass energy technology, geothermal energy resources, coal resources development, new energy promotion department activities, NEDO information center activities, and so on. On the other hand, the research and development of industrial technology includes research and development of industrial technology, and global environment technology. The research and development of industrial technology consists of superconductivity, new materials, biotechnology, electronics, information and communications, machinery and aerospace, natural resources, humanity, life and society, and various leading researches.

  15. Systematic analysis on mooring systems of floating structures; Futai keiryuho ni kansuru keitoteki kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Yoshida, K.; Suzuki, H.; Ide, T. [The University of Tokyo, Tokyo (Japan)

    1996-12-31

    Discussed herein are mooring performance requirements of the new types of marine structures now proposed, and characteristic ranges and future expansion potential of the existing mooring systems. The mooring systems studied for floating structures are catenary, single point (multi-leg and single-leg types), fixed structure with fender and tension leg mooring systems. The studied items include extraction of the elements that constitute rigidity of the spring for horizontal mooring, survey on and data collection for each element, determination of element ranges, programs for mooring analysis, assessment of mooring characteristic ranges, and potential development of the characteristic ranges. It is concluded that the existing systems with their current characteristic ranges and future possibility are insufficient for the future marine structures. It is therefore necessary to develop new mooring concepts, instead of expanding the current concepts, in order to meet the mooring performance requirements for the new marine structures. 14 refs., 9 figs., 11 tabs.

  16. Research study on harmonized molecular materials (HMM); Bunshi kyocho zairyo ni kansuru chosa kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1997-03-01

    As functional material to satisfy various needs for environmental harmonization and efficient conversion for information-oriented and aging societies, HMM were surveyed. Living bodies effectively carry out transmission/processing of information, and transport/conversion of substances, and these functions are based on harmonization between organic molecules, and between those and metal or inorganic ones. HMM is a key substance to artificially realize these bio-related functions. Its R & D aims at (1) Making a breakthrough in production process based on innovation of material separation/conversion technology, (2) Contribution to an information-oriented society by high-efficiency devices, and (3) Growth of a functional bio-material industry. HMM is classified into three categories: (1) Assembly materials such as organic ultra-thin films (LB film, self-organizing film), and organic/inorganic hybrid materials for optoelectronics, sensors and devices, (2) Mesophase materials such as functional separation membrane and photo-conductive material, and (3) Microporous materials such as synthetic catalyst using guest/host materials. 571 refs., 88 figs., 21 tabs.

  17. Investigational research on the design of computational materials; Keisanki zairyo sekkei no chosa kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1998-03-01

    Computer chemistry was investigationally studied. The advance of theoretical chemistry is indispensable to the design of materials, and the theory and high speed computational method are expected which can simulate the real system with more accuracy. It is basic to simulate structures and physical properties of structural molecules and the aggregate, but the meso region, the intermedium region between structural molecules and the aggregate, has became regarded as important. Rough visualization models in high polymer materials and the progress of computational software/hardware of quantum chemistry/molecular dynamics such as catalyst become necessary. Seamless zooming is proposed as a concept of the software which simulates materials from micro/macro/meso viewpoints. Moreover, to make the most of computer chemistry, an integrated system is necessary which generally handles computational software, database, etc. For the development of software, indispensable is the demonstrative verification by a combination of experiments and researchers. Under a commission from NEDO, the investigational research was conducted as a leading study during fiscal 1996 and 1997 to view the course of the research. 17 refs., 37 figs., 5 tabs.

  18. Leading research on cell proliferation regulation technology; Saibo zoshoku seigyo gijutsu no sendo kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1997-03-01

    For developing intelligent material, animal test alternative model, bio-cell analysis equipment, self-controlling bio-reactor and medical material, development of functional cells was studied by cell proliferation regulation technology. In fiscal 1996, the expression analysis and separation technology of specific gene for cell proliferation, and the intracellular regulation technology were surveyed from the viewpoint of intracellular regulation. The cell proliferation regulation technology by specific regulating material of cells, extracellular matrix, coculture system and embryonic cell was surveyed from the viewpoint of extracellular regulation. In addition, based on these survey results, new cell culture/analysis technology, new bio-material, artificial organ system, energy saving bio-reactor, environment purification microorganism, and animal test alternative model were surveyed as applications to industrial basic technologies from a long-term viewpoint. The approach to cell proliferation regulation requires preparation of a concrete proliferation regulation technology system of cells, and concrete application targets. 268 refs., 43 figs., 4 tabs.

  19. Introductory study of brain function data processing; No kino joho shori no sendo kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1998-03-01

    An investigational study was conducted of the brain function aiming at developing an interface with the same function as humans have. In the study, the most up-to-date information/knowledge and future problems were examined on brain measurement, brain modeling, making a model an element, and the brain function data processing system. As to the brain measurement, the paper took up the multielectrode simultaneous measuring method and the optical multipoint measuring method as an invasive measuring method, and the functional magnetic resonance imaging, near-infrared spectroscopy, magneto-encephalography, and electro-encephalography as a non-invasive measuring method. Relating to the brain modeling, studies were made on senses of sight and smell, the movement control and the learning. As to making a model an element, how to make the modeled function a chip on silicone for example becomes the problem. Reported were two reports on making the sense of sight an element and one report on making the parallel dispersed processing mechanism of brain an element. About the brain function data processing system, three reports were made on the present situation, matters in question, and the future development of the system in the case of catching data processing as a system taking a step ahead from making the model an element. 250 refs., 74 figs., 11 tabs.

  20. FY 1998 report on the R and D of the industrial science technology. R and D of synergy ceramics; 1998 nendo sangyo kagaku gijutsu kenkyu kaihatsu seika hokokusho. Synergy ceramics no kenkyu kaihatsu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    2000-03-01

    Hazardous ingredients in gases exhausted from diesel, refuse treatment facilities, etc. are becoming the problem. The development is expected of porous ceramic films which have functions of separation/purification at high temperature. By making good use of the technology to synthesize ceramic films with uniform through pores of several ten nm order and the technology to form 1D through pores of several ten - 100{mu} m order, the development of the following technologies were made and are in sight: enhancement of functions of gas separation/purification, function of catalyst-carrying to be given, porous film formation/base material fabrication. For the commercialization of high performance structure use ceramic parts, required is innovation of the production method by which the production cost is reduced without damaging the characteristics. Technologies were used of micro-fine raw materials, rapid sintering, texture assessment, analysis, etc., and study was made of cost reduction in high performance ceramic parts. For energy conservation by reducing the sintering temperature, the following were trially conducted: mechanical ironing, use of low grade raw material, use of superplastic reformation and forging, etc. (NEDO)

  1. Leading research in FY 1995. Research of product evaluation and advanced measurements - Part 1 (product evaluation); 1995 nendo sendo kenkyu. Seihin hyoka kodo keisoku bunseki gijutsu ni kansuru chosa kenkyu - 1 (seihin hyoka)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1996-03-01

    Product evaluation has been investigated from a viewpoint of compatibility with human life by considering human being as the subject of life. This report describes the investigation results. Product evaluation is defined as evaluating products on a consumer-oriented viewpoint and informing consumers of the evaluation results. According to a questionnaire survey with regard to daily living products, products in the low degree of satisfaction in their usage were electric tooth brush, video camera, electric rice jar, vacuum cleaner, and electric iron. Contents of dissatisfaction with these products were classified by aspect, i.e., human aspect regarding human body/recognition, life aspect regarding functions of products and how to use them, and sensitivity aspect such as appearance of products. Thus, points at issue were clarified. As regards the human aspect, incompatibility between the size/form of products and human body/posture, and recognition psychological incompatibility such as difficulty in understanding function or operation of products were pointed out. Establishment of a method for measuring and evaluating the human`s body functions and the compatibility with products, and necessity of the acquisition of human`s body characteristic data and the consolidation positions are also described. 4 refs., 42 figs., 30 tabs.

  2. Research and development of basic technologies for the next generation industries, 'three-dimensional circuit elements'. Evaluation on the research and development; Jisedai sangyo kiban gijutsu kenkyu kaihatsu 'sanjigen kairo soshi'. Kenkyu kaihatsu hyoka

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1991-04-01

    Research, development and evaluation were performed with an objective of establishing the basic technology related to three-dimensional circuit elements that integrate functions at ultra-high density. For the basic technology of lamination, the SOI technology suitable for the three-dimensional circuit elements was developed, and it has become possible to manufacture high-quality multi-layered crystalline structure by means of annealing that uses laser and electron beam. In addition, a lateral epitaxial technology for solid phase was developed, and the base to be applied to the three-dimensional circuit elements was established. Furthermore, the technology to put thin film circuits together would be useful for high-density integration in the future. The three-dimensional circuit makes parallel processing in each segment possible, whereas a possibility was shown that the processing can be performed at much higher speed than before. Actually a prototype three-dimensional circuit equipped with functions for parallel processing and judgment processing was fabricated. The image pre-processing which has been impossible on the real time basis in the conventional two-dimensional integrated circuit was realized in a speed as fast as milli-second order. These achievements lead to a belief that the targets for the present research and development have been achieved. (NEDO)

  3. FY 2000 project on the research cooperation for the environmental response type water resource effective utilization system; 2000 nendo kenkyu kyoryoku jigyo. Kankyo taiogata mizu shigen yuko riyo system ni kansuru kenkyu kyoryoku

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    2001-03-01

    For the purpose of prevention of water pollution, stable water supply in the Philippines, etc., developmental study was made of a waste water treatment/water recycling system, and the FY 2000 results were summed up. In the operational study of Pilot Plant 1, for the waste water in the papermaking process of used paper recycling plant, development was studied of a waste water treatment/water recycling system. There occurred problems on minuteness, outflow, etc. of anaerobic granules, but those were caused by malfunction of SS removal equipment at plant side. The problems were solved by increasing flocculation/precipitation facilities. As to Pilot Plant 2 of which the R and D are planned to be started in April 2001, the food processing plant was surveyed for study, and SYSCORE was selected. Relating to the waste water treatment test of Pilot Plant 2, researchers of the Industrial Technology Development Institute (ITDI) of the Philippines conducted it under the guidance of the experimental data analysis. Besides, the paper carried out the training for technology spread/acceptance, technology spread seminar, support study in Japan, etc. (NEDO)

  4. Research and development of basic technologies for next generation industries, 'composite materials'. Evaluation on final research and development (interim report); Jisedai sangyo kiban gijutsu kenkyu kaihatsu. Fukugo zairyo (saishu kenkyu kaihatsu hyoka 2)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1989-05-01

    Development was made on a technology to evaluate quality of composite materials. Few data are available for environmental resistance of composite materials, whereas identification of environmental deterioration behavior and establishment of a environmental resistance evaluating technology are a significant issue in utilizing these materials as new materials for space, aeronautics, and marine applications in the future. The present research was taken up with objectives to elucidate deterioration behavior of composite materials exposed to special environment in the atmosphere and space and to establish methods for acceleration tests and environmental performance evaluation by using simulated environments equivalent to the natural environment exposure. The former period (fiscal 1982 through 1984) has investigated environmental conditions in the atmosphere and space, prepared standard test specimens, performed design on environmental devices simulating the environmental elements, as well as tests on deterioration due to environmental elements, and systematized the deterioration characteristics to establish composite test conditions. The latter period (fiscal 1985 through 1988) has developed the composite environment testing device based on the result achieved in the former period, elucidated the deterioration behavior under the composite environmental conditions, and performed evaluation tests on the developed composite materials (FRP). (NEDO)

  5. Summary of research achievements in fiscal 1978 in research and development of new energy technologies (Research and development expense for the former half period); 1978 (kamihanki) nendo kenkyu seika no gaiyo. Kenkyu kaihatsuhi

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1978-07-01

    This paper describes the summary of research achievements in fiscal 1978 in research and development of new energy technologies at the General Research Institute of Electronics Technologies using the NEDO's development expense. For measurement of solar beam spectral radiation illuminance, measurement data in ultraviolet and visible zones were collected. Comprehensive adjustment was performed on near infrared zone measuring devices. In solar thermal power generation, discussions were given on three kinds of collector combinations as a study on enhancement and optimization of functions in small-size system models. Fundamental studies on solar cells are continuing, including those for compound and amorphous semiconductors. Development of new electrode materials having large work function, and module performance tests are being progressed in order to realize solar heat electron power generation. In hydrogen manufacturing using the high-temperature direct pyrolysis method, studies are being performed on thermal decomposition performance and the hydrogen separation method (using separation membranes). Regarding hydrogen fuel cells, power generation experiments were executed by using zirconia solid electrolyte type fuel cells. Methodological development is being moved forward to realize a total energy system including the future societies and nature. This paper also describes experimental studies on power generation using ocean temperature difference. It also describes high-temperature ionization gases and superconducting magnets as the seeds of new energy technologies. (NEDO)

  6. Summary of research achievements in fiscal 1978 in research and development of new energy technologies (Research and development expense for the former half period); 1978 (kamihanki) nendo kenkyu seika no gaiyo. Kenkyu kaihatsuhi

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1978-07-01

    This paper describes the summary of research achievements in fiscal 1978 in research and development of new energy technologies at the General Research Institute of Electronics Technologies using the NEDO's development expense. For measurement of solar beam spectral radiation illuminance, measurement data in ultraviolet and visible zones were collected. Comprehensive adjustment was performed on near infrared zone measuring devices. In solar thermal power generation, discussions were given on three kinds of collector combinations as a study on enhancement and optimization of functions in small-size system models. Fundamental studies on solar cells are continuing, including those for compound and amorphous semiconductors. Development of new electrode materials having large work function, and module performance tests are being progressed in order to realize solar heat electron power generation. In hydrogen manufacturing using the high-temperature direct pyrolysis method, studies are being performed on thermal decomposition performance and the hydrogen separation method (using separation membranes). Regarding hydrogen fuel cells, power generation experiments were executed by using zirconia solid electrolyte type fuel cells. Methodological development is being moved forward to realize a total energy system including the future societies and nature. This paper also describes experimental studies on power generation using ocean temperature difference. It also describes high-temperature ionization gases and superconducting magnets as the seeds of new energy technologies. (NEDO)

  7. Research and development of a high-temperature superconducting flywheel energy storage system. Research and development of the New Sunshine Program; Furaihoiru denryoku chozo shisutemu kenkyu kaihatsu. Nyu sanshain keikaku ni motozuku kenkyu kaihatsu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Nakagawa, Y. [New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization, Tokyo (Japan)

    1999-11-25

    The project conducted by NEDO for developing a high-temperature superconducting flywheel energy storage system is introduced; the two test results of fundamental studies are described. One is the measurement of levitation force and rotation loss of superconducting magnetic bearings composed of oxide superconducting bulks and permanent magnet composite. Two types of superconducting magnetic bearings. axial and radial types, were fabricated and tested. The other test was the fabrication and testing of two functional models. A small-sized superconducting flywheel model of the 0.5 kWh class was fabricated and tested. A medium-sized rotating functional model of the 10 kWh class was fabricated as well. (author)

  8. Development of technology for thin substrate polycrystalline solar cells for practical use. Survey on analysis for practical use; Usugata takessho taiyo denchi seizo gijutsu no jitsuyoka kenkyu. Jitsuyoka kaiseki ni kansuru chosa kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Tatsuta, M [New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization, Tokyo (Japan)

    1994-12-01

    This paper reports the survey results on the manufacturing technology trend of thin substrate solar cells for practical use in fiscal 1994. In production of Si raw material, as electron beam melting and ingot production are combined, C, P, Ca and Al are removed by evaporation, while Fe and Ti by solidifying segregation. As the basic technology of continuous casting for substrate production, a drop coagulation method for Si melt is under investigation which is more advantageous in unidirectional solidification and cell conversion efficiency than conventional methods. The cost and future of single crystal Si and polycrystal Si were compared on the basis of document survey. Every institute commonly uses FZ substrates to produce single crystal Si cells, and SiO2 for surface passivation. New cell structure, hetero-structure, thin cell, crystalline defect and lifetime are under investigation for ultrahigh-efficiency solar cells. The technology trend was also surveyed through academic societies and conferences. 5 tabs.

  9. Research and development of system to utilize photovoltaic energy. Survey on system and peripheral technologies for utilization of photovoltaic power; Taiyoko hatsuden riyo system no kenkyu kaihatsu. Riyo system ni kansuru chosa kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Tatsuta, M [New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization, Tokyo (Japan)

    1994-12-01

    This paper reports the survey results on systems and peripheral technologies for use of PV power in fiscal 1994. On the case study of PV communities, as housing zone PV community, Seibu Kitanodai housing estate mainly composed of detached houses, and the Suwa area of Tama New Town of apartment houses were selected to study PV power generation on a roof, wall and window. The result clarified that generated energy of a detached house reaches 3-4 times as much as consumed one, that of an apartment house is nearly equal to consumed one, and power generation of nearly 380MW is possible based on expected housing supply until 2000. As urban core zone PV community, the survey result on Ebisu Garden Place clarified that the expected PV power supply rate is 10% or more, 20% and 30% or more for hotel and office buildings, high-rise apartment building more than 30 stories, and medium-rise one of 10 and several stories, respectively. In Sakura industrial estate, the maximum generated power was nearly equal to consumed power in a weekday, and as inverse power flow in a holiday was considered, the annual PV power supply rate was extremely high.

  10. Research and development of peripheral technology for photovoltaic power systems. Study of nickel-hydride storage battery for photovoltaic generation systems; Shuhen gijutsu no kenkyu kaihatsu. Taiyoko hatsuden`yo suiso denchi no kenkyu kaihatsu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Tatsuta, M [New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization, Tokyo (Japan)

    1994-12-01

    This paper reports the study results on R and D of nickel-hydride storage battery for photovoltaic generation systems in fiscal 1994. (1) On the study on low-cost electrode materials, the physical properties and electrode characteristics were studied of the prototype hydrogen absorbing alloys prepared by substituting Cu or Ni for Co in Mm(Ni-Co-Mn-Al)5 (Mm: mixture of rare earth elements). The result clarified that it is difficult to reduce Co content in the alloy to 0.4 atom or less. Simple heat treatment and milling processes in production of hydrogen absorbing alloy electrodes were achieved by adopting an improved metal mold and gas atomization method. Characteristics and cycle life of the Ni positive electrode prepared by applying active paste material of Ni(OH)2 were studied, however, the result showed only lives of nearly 300 cycles. (2) On the study on electrode structure for high-performance (long-life) battery, the 3-D porous metal electrode support was evaluated, and various battery configurations were studied. 11 figs., 1 tab.

  11. Leading research report for fiscal 1998. Research and study of ozone-aided technologies for creating amenity-rich environments; 1998 nendo sendo chosa kenkyu hokokusho. Ozon riyo kaiteki kankyo sozo gijutsu no chosa kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1999-03-01

    Researches were conducted aiming at the establishment of an ozone-aided highly efficient decomposition process for the persistent organic matters in municipal sewage and industrial wastewater. Tested for verification were advanced water treatment technologies of the biological function acceleration type and the effect of their combination with the accelerated oxidation method, conditions necessary for efficient operation, and water treatment apparatuses and systems for operating them at high efficiency. Some findings are stated below. With an ozone-aided process performed at the first stage of biological treatment, biological decomposition is accelerated for a rise in the persistent organic matter decomposition rate. This is nothing but a finding in the laboratory, however, and much remains to be disclosed concerning the optimum conditions, reforming of sludge to be generated, volume reduction of the same, etc. Another finding involves the acceleration of decomposition of persistent organic matters using ozone in combination with hydrogen peroxide, ultraviolet radiation, titanium oxide, and the like. There still remain numerous tasks to carry out, however, which relate to the investigation of the reaction mechanism, establishment of operating conditions and criteria for selecting oxidants, etc. As for ozone, remaining to be solved are the problems of generation cost, storage and preservation, and safety. (NEDO)

  12. Research and development of basic technologies for the next generation industries, 'bio-elements'. Evaluation on the first term research and development; Jisedai sangyo kiban gijutsu kenkyu kaihtsu 'bio soshi'. Daiikki kenkyu kaihatsu hyoka

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1991-03-01

    Research, development and evaluation were performed in order to establish basic technologies to realize new information processing incorporating high-order functions of living organisms, and bio-elements equipped with high-order functions. In the field of developing technical means to measure directly the information processing function of living organisms, detailed analysis has become possible for the first time on spatial operation of nerve activities by using two-dimensional beam measurement operation on the nerve activities. In the field of aiming at modeling, a system to realize functions effective in terms of engineering was structured by incorporating into the model the functions specific to nervous systems of visual sense and motion. In the field of element technologies, a large progress was seen in the basic technology and evaluation technology such as design and fabrication of molecules added with different functions in the LB membrane. Membranes having simple but different functions such as light beam and scent detection were manufactured, whereas a possibility of having them manifest functions as elements was verified. Furthermore, possibilities were discovered in manufacturing functional membranes by using self-organizing capability as a result of using basic properties possessed by polymers, and in realizing functions simulating plasticity of nerves. These achievements would lead to a belief that the targets of the first term research and development have been achieved nearly completely. (NEDO)

  13. Research and development of basic technologies for next generation industries, 'composite materials'. Evaluation on final research and development (final report); Jisedai sangyo kiban gijutsu kenkyu kaihatsu. Fukugo zairyo (saishu kenkyu kaihatsu hyoka 3)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1989-05-01

    This paper carries the specifications for advanced composites in the investigation (SACOI), and lists the titles and organizations and persons in charge. The paper describes the specifications for test and measurement methods for each title. The titles are: testing methods of matrix resins for carbon fiber reinforced plastics, measurement method for thermogravimetry and glass transition temperature for the same plastics, measuring methods for specific gravity, fiber and void contents of carbon fiber reinforced plastics, testing methods for tensile properties, compression properties, apparent interlaminar shear strength, tension fatigue, interlaminar fracture toughness, crack propagation, high velocity impact, izod impact, and environmental resistance for the same plastics, evaluation methods for hot-press formability of prepreg, autoclave formability of prepreg for the same plastics, measuring methods for tex count, density, and fiber volume fraction of wire preform, testing methods for tensile strength at room temperature, tensile strength at elevated temperature of wire preform, measuring methods for thermal expansion coefficient, tension properties, compression properties, tensile shear strength, interlaminar shear strength, in-plane shear strength, tensile fatigue, high velocity impact and regular impact of wire preform. (NEDO)

  14. A clinical analysis of maxillary cancer

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Ishida, Haruhiko; Amatsu, Mutsuo [Kobe Univ. (Japan). School of Medicine

    2001-03-01

    Forty-five patients with maxillary cancer were treated at Kobe University Hospital during the years 1990-1999. We analyzed 35 of there cases that had undergone curative treatment. They were classified by T the classification (UICC, 1997) as two cases with T1, seven with T2, eight with T3, and 18 with T4. The two patients with T1 were treated with radiation alone, and four of the other patients were treated with surgery alone. Eight patients were given irradiation, intra-arterial infusion chemotherapy, and curettage of necotic tumor (combined therapy group); 10 received preoperative intra-arterial infusion chemotherapy, irradiation, and maxillectomy or extended maxillectomy (preoperative treatment group), and 11 underwent extended surgery and postoperative chemotherapy and/or irradiation (postoperative treatment group). The five-year survival rates were 65.1% for all patients, 83.3% for T3 cases, and 41.6% for T4 cases. The five-year survival rates were 48.6% for the combined therapy group, 80% for the preoperative treatment group, and 54.6% for the postoperative treatment group. Although the four cases with T2 who underwent combined therapy all remained disease-free, all three cases with T3 and T4 died of the disease. On the other hand, six of the seven patients with T3 and T4 in the preoperative treatment group remained disease-free. Based on these results, we believe that maxillectomy or extended maxillectomy following intra-arterial chemotherapy and irradiation is the most effective treatment modality for T3 and T4 cases. (author)

  15. A clinical analysis of maxillary cancer

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Ishida, Haruhiko; Amatsu, Mutsuo

    2001-01-01

    Forty-five patients with maxillary cancer were treated at Kobe University Hospital during the years 1990-1999. We analyzed 35 of there cases that had undergone curative treatment. They were classified by T the classification (UICC, 1997) as two cases with T1, seven with T2, eight with T3, and 18 with T4. The two patients with T1 were treated with radiation alone, and four of the other patients were treated with surgery alone. Eight patients were given irradiation, intra-arterial infusion chemotherapy, and curettage of necotic tumor (combined therapy group); 10 received preoperative intra-arterial infusion chemotherapy, irradiation, and maxillectomy or extended maxillectomy (preoperative treatment group), and 11 underwent extended surgery and postoperative chemotherapy and/or irradiation (postoperative treatment group). The five-year survival rates were 65.1% for all patients, 83.3% for T3 cases, and 41.6% for T4 cases. The five-year survival rates were 48.6% for the combined therapy group, 80% for the preoperative treatment group, and 54.6% for the postoperative treatment group. Although the four cases with T2 who underwent combined therapy all remained disease-free, all three cases with T3 and T4 died of the disease. On the other hand, six of the seven patients with T3 and T4 in the preoperative treatment group remained disease-free. Based on these results, we believe that maxillectomy or extended maxillectomy following intra-arterial chemotherapy and irradiation is the most effective treatment modality for T3 and T4 cases. (author)

  16. Comparison study of the rates of manual peripheral blood smear review from 3 automated hematology analyzers, Unicel DxH 800, ADVIA 2120i, and XE 2100, using international consensus group guidelines.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Kim, Sue Jung; Kim, Yoonjung; Shin, Saeam; Song, Jaewoo; Choi, Jong Rak

    2012-11-01

    In the clinical laboratory, it is important both to reduce the number of peripheral blood slide reviews to save time and money and to avoid reporting false results. To determine differences in the slide review rates of 3 widely used automated hematologic analyzers, the Unicel DxH 800 (Beckman Coulter Inc, Fullerton, California), ADVIA 2120i (Siemens Diagnostics, Tarrytown, New York), and XE 2100 (Sysmex, Kobe, Japan), using International Consensus Group for Hematology Review guidelines. A total of 1485 samples were tested, and 300 were manually reviewed. Slide review rates, sensitivity, specificity, and false-positive and false-negative rates were estimated using consensus group rules and compared using χ(2) tests, Fisher exact tests, or generalized estimating equations. Unicel DxH 800, ADVIA 2120i, and XE 2100 showed 22.8%, 20.2%, and 28.6% slide review rates; 14.3%, 14.3%, and 9.7% false-negative rates; and 13.7, 11.3%, and 17.3% false-positive rates, respectively. All analyzers showed significantly higher false-negative rates than that of the consensus group (2.9%). False-negative rates were higher than the recommended levels. Among 3 automated hematologic analyzers, XE 2100 showed the highest rate of slide review. Because the present study clearly shows that the slide review rates have distinct characteristics among the studied analyzers, each individual laboratory should consider selecting the most appropriate analyzer according to clinical characteristics. Analyzers with high sensitivity may be advantageous in outpatient settings for screening patients, whereas analyzers with high specificity may be beneficial in inpatient settings for efficient patient care.

  17. Long-term outcomes after immediate aortic repair for acute type A aortic dissection complicated by coma.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Tsukube, Takuro; Haraguchi, Tomonori; Okada, Yasushi; Matsukawa, Ritsu; Kozawa, Shuichi; Ogawa, Kyoichi; Okita, Yutaka

    2014-09-01

    The management of acute type A aortic dissection complicated by coma remains controversial. We previously reported an excellent rate of recovery of consciousness provided aortic repair was performed within 5 hours of the onset of symptoms. This study evaluates the early and long-term outcomes using this approach. Between August 2003 and July 2013, of the 241 patients with acute type A aortic dissection brought to the Japanese Red Cross Kobe Hospital and Hyogo Emergency Medical Center, 30 (12.4%) presented with coma; Glasgow Coma Scale was less than 11 on arrival. Surgery was performed in 186 patients, including 27 (14.5%) who were comatose. Twenty-four comatose patients underwent successful aortic repair immediately (immediate group). Their mean age was 71.0 ± 11.1 years, Glasgow Coma Scale was 6.5 ± 2.4, and prevalence of carotid dissection was 79%. For brain protection, deep hypothermia with antegrade cerebral perfusion was used, and postoperative induced hypothermia was performed. Neurologic evaluations were performed using the Glasgow Coma Scale, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale, and modified Rankin Scale. In the immediate group, the time from the onset of symptoms to arrival in the operating theater was 222 ± 86 minutes. Hospital mortality was 12.5%. Full recovery of consciousness was achieved in 79% of patients in up to 30 days. Postoperative Glasgow Coma Scale and National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale improved significantly when compared with the preoperative score (P coma were satisfactory. Copyright © 2014 The American Association for Thoracic Surgery. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

  18. Seismic response prediction for cabinets of nuclear power plants by using impact hammer test

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Koo, Ki Young [Department of Civil and Structural Engineering, University of Sheffield, Sheffield (United Kingdom); Gook Cho, Sung [JACE KOREA, Gyeonggi-do (Korea, Republic of); Cui, Jintao [Department of Civil Engineering, Kunsan National University, Jeonbuk (Korea, Republic of); Kim, Dookie, E-mail: kim2kie@kunsan.ac.k [Department of Civil Engineering, Kunsan National University, Jeonbuk (Korea, Republic of)

    2010-10-15

    An effective method to predict the seismic response of electrical cabinets of nuclear power plants is developed. This method consists of three steps: (1) identification of the earthquake-equivalent force based on the idealized lumped-mass system of the cabinet, (2) identification of the state-space equation (SSE) model of the system using input-output measurements from impact hammer tests, and (3) seismic response prediction by calculating the output of the identified SSE model under the identified earthquake-equivalent force. A three-dimensional plate model of cabinet structures is presented for the numerical verification of the proposed method. Experimental validation of the proposed method is carried out on a three-story frame which represents the structure of a cabinet. The SSE model of the frame is accurately identified by impact hammer tests with high fitness values over 85% of the actual frame characteristics. Shaking table tests are performed using El Centro, Kobe, and Northridge earthquakes as input motions and the acceleration responses are measured. The responses of the model under the three earthquakes are predicted and then compared with the measured responses. The predicted and measured responses agree well with each other with fitness values of 65-75%. The proposed method is more advantageous over other methods that are based on finite element (FE) model updating since it is free from FE modeling errors. It will be especially effective for cabinet structures in nuclear power plants where conducting shaking table tests may not be feasible. Limitations of the proposed method are also discussed.

  19. Radon, gas geochemistry, groundwater, and earthquakes

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    King, Chi-Yu [Power Reactor and Nuclear Fuel Development Corp., Tono Geoscience Center, Toki, Gifu (Japan)

    1998-12-31

    Radon monitoring in groundwater, soil air, and atmosphere has been continued in many seismic areas of the world for earthquake-prediction and active-fault studies. Some recent measurements of radon and other geochemical and hydrological parameters have been made for sufficiently long periods, with reliable instruments, and together with measurements of meteorological variables and solid-earth tides. The resultant data are useful in better distinguishing earthquake-related changes from various background noises. Some measurements have been carried out in areas where other geophysical measurements are being made also. Comparative studies of various kinds of geophysical data are helpful in ascertaining the reality of the earthquake-related and fault-related anomalies and in understanding the underlying mechanisms. Spatial anomalies of radon and other terrestrial gasses have been observed for many active faults. Such observations indicate that gas concentrations are very much site dependent, particularly on fault zones where terrestrial fluids may move vertically. Temporal anomalies have been reliably observed before and after some recent earthquakes, including the 1995 Kobe earthquake, and the general pattern of anomaly occurrence remains the same as observed before: They are recorded at only relatively few sensitive sites, which can be at much larger distances than expected from existing earthquake-source models. The sensitivity of a sensitive site is also found to be changeable with time. These results clearly show the inadequacy of the existing dilatancy-fluid diffusion and elastic-dislocation models for earthquake sources to explain earthquake-related geochemical and geophysical changes recorded at large distances. (J.P.N.)

  20. Porosity determination of damaged fault zones and role of rock state on fluid flow during fluid rock interactions. Mineralogy, porosity structures and mechanical properties; Determination de la porosite des zones endommagees autour des failles et role de l'etat du materiau sur les proprietes d'echange fluides-roches: Mineralogie, structures de porosite, caracteristiques mecaniques

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Surma, F.

    2003-07-01

    Fault zone structure is characterized by a fault core (gouge, cataclasite, mylonite), a damage zone (small faults, fractures, veins fold) and a proto-lith. We can clearly describe these structures in the Soultz-sous-Forets granite (HDR Project, France) and in the Nojima Fault zone (Kobe, Japan). This work shows us that the structures are the same ones in the two sites in spite of their different deformation mode one in extension and the other in compression. We propose, starting from the petrographic observations, a study of porosity and physical properties, a fluid flow model in a altered and fractured granite, taking into account the evolution of the fluid pressure and the processes of dissolution-precipitation during an earthquake. In the case of extension, the inter-seismic period is associated to an opening of the fractures in the fault damaged zone and an increase in porosity due to the rock alteration. During the earthquake, the fractures are closed and the fluid is expelled. In the case of compression, the inter-seismic period is associated to the closing of the fractures in the matrix and the expulsion of the fluids towards the fault whereas curing the earthquake the fractures open because of the fluid pressure increase. Thus, there is a constant competition between the processes which enhance permeability and those which tend to reduce it. These processes (stresses, mineral precipitation, fluid pressure variation... etc) are the same ones in the various contexts, but they do not interfere at the same time during an earthquake. (author)

  1. [Medium- and long-term health effects of the L'Aquila earthquake (Central Italy, 2009) and of other earthquakes in high-income Countries: a systematic review].

    Science.gov (United States)

    Ripoll Gallardo, Alba; Alesina, Marta; Pacelli, Barbara; Serrone, Dario; Iacutone, Giovanni; Faggiano, Fabrizio; Della Corte, Francesco; Allara, Elias

    2016-01-01

    to compare the methodological characteristics of the studies investigating the middle- and long-term health effects of the L'Aquila earthquake with the features of studies conducted after other earthquakes occurred in highincome Countries. a systematic comparison between the studies which evaluated the health effects of the L'Aquila earthquake (Central Italy, 6th April 2009) and those conducted after other earthquakes occurred in comparable settings. Medline, Scopus, and 6 sources of grey literature were systematically searched. Inclusion criteria comprised measurement of health outcomes at least one month after the earthquake, investigation of earthquakes occurred in high-income Countries, and presence of at least one temporal or geographical control group. out of 2,976 titles, 13 studies regarding the L'Aquila earthquake and 51 studies concerning other earthquakes were included. The L'Aquila and the Kobe/Hanshin- Awaji (Japan, 17th January 1995) earthquakes were the most investigated. Studies on the L'Aquila earthquake had a median sample size of 1,240 subjects, a median duration of 24 months, and used most frequently a cross sectional design (7/13). Studies on other earthquakes had a median sample size of 320 subjects, a median duration of 15 months, and used most frequently a time series design (19/51). the L'Aquila studies often focussed on mental health, while the earthquake effects on mortality, cardiovascular outcomes, and health systems were less frequently evaluated. A more intensive use of routine data could benefit future epidemiological surveillance in the aftermath of earthquakes.

  2. UICC-ARO Symposium at the UICC 2016 World Cancer Congress

    Science.gov (United States)

    Akaza, Hideyuki; Kawahara, Norie; Fukuda, Takashi; Horie, Shigeo; Thabrany, Hasbullah; Nozaki, Shinjiro

    2017-11-26

    The 2016 World Cancer Congress, organised by UICC, was held in Paris in November 2016, under the theme “Mobilizing action – Inspiring Change.” As part of Track 4 presentations on the theme of “Strengthening cancer control: optimizing outcomes of health systems,” UICC-Asian Regional Office (UICC-ARO) held a symposium to discuss the issue of mobilizing action to realize UHC in Asia. Introducing the symposium, Hideyuki Akaza noted that universal health coverage (UHC) is included in the Sustainable Development Goals and one of the key issues for achieving UHC will be how to balance patient needs with the economic burden of cancer. Speakers from Japan and Indonesia addressed various issues, including the current status and challenges for medical economic evaluation in Asia, the importance of resource stratification, prospects for precision medicine, and the outlook for cancer control and UHC in developing and emerging countries in Asia. Key issues raised included how to respond to the rising costs of treating cancer as new and increasingly expensive drugs come to the market. Speakers and participants noted that health technology assessment programs are being developed around Asia in order to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of drugs in the face of budgetary constraints within increasingly pressurized national health systems. The importance of screening and early detection was also noted as effective means that have the potential to reduce reliance on expensive drugs for advanced cancers. The symposium was chaired jointly by Hideyuki Akaza and Shinjiro Nozaki (WHO Kobe Centre). Creative Commons Attribution License

  3. Taurine does not affect the composition, diversity, or metabolism of human colonic microbiota simulated in a single-batch fermentation system.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Sasaki, Kengo; Sasaki, Daisuke; Okai, Naoko; Tanaka, Kosei; Nomoto, Ryohei; Fukuda, Itsuko; Yoshida, Ken-Ichi; Kondo, Akihiko; Osawa, Ro

    2017-01-01

    Accumulating evidence suggests that dietary taurine (2-aminoethanesulfonic acid) exerts beneficial anti-inflammatory effects in the large intestine. In this study, we investigated the possible impact of taurine on human colonic microbiota using our single-batch fermentation system (Kobe University Human Intestinal Microbiota Model; KUHIMM). Fecal samples from eight humans were individually cultivated with and without taurine in the KUHIMM. The results showed that taurine remained largely undegraded after 30 h of culturing in the absence of oxygen, although some 83% of the taurine was degraded after 30 h of culturing under aerobic conditions. Diversity in bacterial species in the cultures was analyzed by 16S rRNA gene sequencing, revealing that taurine caused no significant change in the diversity of the microbiota; both operational taxonomic unit and Shannon-Wiener index of the cultures were comparable to those of the respective source fecal samples. In addition, principal coordinate analysis indicated that taurine did not alter the composition of bacterial species, since the 16S rRNA gene profile of bacterial species in the original fecal sample was maintained in each of the cultures with and without taurine. Furthermore, metabolomic analysis revealed that taurine did not affect the composition of short-chain fatty acids produced in the cultures. These results, under these controlled but artificial conditions, suggested that the beneficial anti-inflammatory effects of dietary taurine in the large intestine are independent of the intestinal microbiota. We infer that dietary taurine may act directly in the large intestine to exert anti-inflammatory effects.

  4. Reduction in non-protein respiratory quotient is related to overall survival after hepatocellular carcinoma treatment.

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Masaya Saito

    Full Text Available BACKGROUND: Transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE is an effective treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC that can occasionally lead to the shortening of life expectancy. We aimed to make a new and more accurate prognostic model taking into account the course of disease after TACE. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: We performed a prospective cohort study involving 100 HCC patients who underwent TACE at Kobe University Hospital. Indirect calorimetry and blood biochemical examinations were performed before and 7 days after TACE. Time-dependent and time-fixed factors associated with 1-year mortality after TACE were assessed by multivariate analyses. A predictive model of 1-year mortality was established by the combination of odds ratios of these factors. Multivariate analyses showed that the ratio of non-protein respiratory quotient (npRQ (7 days after/before TACE and Cancer of Liver Italian Program (CLIP score were independent factors of 1-year mortality after TACE (p = 0.014 and 0.013, respectively. Patient-specific 1-year mortality risk scores can be calculated by summarizing the individual risk scores and looking up the patient-specific risk on the graph. CONCLUSIONS: The short-term reduction of npRQ was a time-dependent prognostic factor associated with overall survival in HCC patients undergoing TACE. CLIP score was a time-fixed prognostic factor associated with overall survival. Using the prediction model, which consists of the combination of time-dependent (npRQ ratio and time-fixed (CLIP score prognostic factors, 1-year mortality risk after TACE would be better estimated by taking into account changes during the course of disease.

  5. Wide Distribution and Genetic Diversity of Babesia microti in Small Mammals from Yunnan Province, Southwestern China.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Gao, Zi-Hou; Huang, Tao-Hua; Jiang, Bao-Gui; Jia, Na; Liu, Zheng-Xiang; Shao, Zong-Ti; Jiang, Rui-Ruo; Liu, Hong-Bo; Wei, Ran; Li, Yu-Qiong; Yao, Hong-Wu; von Fricken, Michael E; Jiang, Jia-Fu; Du, Chun-Hong; Cao, Wu-Chun

    2017-10-01

    Babesia, usually found in wild and domestic mammals worldwide, have recently been responsible for emerging malaria-like zoonosis in infected patients. Human B. microti infection has been identified in China, primarily in the Southwest along the Myanmar border but little direct surveillance of B. microti infection in rodents has been carried out here (Yunnan province). In this region, a diverse topographic range combined with tropical moisture sustains a high biodiversity of small mammals, which might play important role on Babesia transmission. Small mammals were captured in 141 sample locations from 18 counties located Yunnan Province, and screened for B. microti-like parasites infection by a nested PCR to target 18S rRNA gene of Babesia, plus directly sequencing for positive samples. Univariate and multivariate forward stepwise logistic regression analysis was used to access the association between infections and some related risk factors. Infection with Babesia microti was confirmed in 2.4% (53/ 2204) of small mammals. Significant differences in prevalence rates of B. microti were observed based on variations in forest, agricultural, and residential landscapes. Furthermore, adult small mammals had higher prevalence rates than younger, pubertal mammals. The near full-length 18S rRNA gene revealed that there were two types of B. microti, Kobe and Otsu, which demonstrate the genetic diversity and regional distribution. There exists a wide distribution and genetic diversity of endemic B. microti in Southwestern China, warranting further investigations and monitoring of clinical disease in individuals presenting with Babesia like symptoms in these areas.

  6. Retrospective study for risk factors for febrile UTI in spinal cord injury patients with routine concomitant intermittent catheterization in outpatient settings.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Mukai, S; Shigemura, K; Nomi, M; Sengoku, A; Yamamichi, F; Fujisawa, M; Arakawa, S

    2016-01-01

    Retrospective study. The objective of this study was to investigate the clinical risk factors for febrile urinary tract infection (UTI) in spinal cord injury-associated neurogenic bladder (NB) patients who perform routine clean intermittent catheterization (CIC). Rehabilitation Hospital, Kobe, Japan. Over a 3-year period, we retrospectively assessed the clinical risk factors for febrile UTI in 259 spinal cord injury patients diagnosed as NB and performing routine CIC with regard to the factors such as gender, the presence of pyuria and bacteriuria, and the categories of the American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) impairment scale. A total of 67 patients had febrile UTI in the follow-up period, with 57 cases of pyelonephritis, 11 cases of epididymitis and 2 cases of prostatitis, including the patients with plural infectious diseases. The causative bacteria were ranked as follows: Escherichia coli (74 cases), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (17 cases), Enterococcus faecalis (14 cases) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (12 cases). Antibiotic-resistant E. coli were seen, with 10.5% instances of extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) production and 23.8% of fluoroquinolone resistance. Multivariate analyses of clinical risk factors for febrile UTI showed that gender (male, P=0.0431), and ASIA impairment scale C or more severe (P=0.0266) were significantly associated with febrile UTI occurrence in NB patients with routine CIC. Our data demonstrated gender (male) and ASIA impairment scale C or more severe were significantly associated with febrile UTI occurrence in NB patients using routine CIC. Further prospective studies are necessary to define the full spectrum of possible risk factors for febrile UTI in these patients.

  7. FY 2000 report on the results of the regional consortium R and D project - Regional consortium R and D. Third year report. R and D of the transversal maintenance technology; 2000 nendo chiiki consortium kenkyu kaihatsu jigyo - chiiki consortium kenkyu kaihatsu. Odanteki maintenance gijutsu no kenkyu kaihatsu (dai 3 nendo) seika hokokusho

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    2001-03-01

    For the purpose of eliminating bad effects of the maintenance/management of equipment/facilities of plants which are made separately and of heightening efficiency of work and improving technology, persons in charge of maintenance/management, persons requesting maintenance/management and official research institutes proceeded as one with the construction of a system doing maintenance/management work. Concretely, three parties cooperated in integration and enhancement of element technologies such as inspection/diagnosis and arrangement/repair and developed the maintenance/management system (maintenance center) which does not specify objects. Based on this system, development was made of the network connecting between the center and facilities, diagnosis car, and multi-functional repair car. Studies were made on the following three. As to the system development, conducted were the development of a deterioration mode prediction system, basic structuring of a remote maintenance network, and making of fatigue/corrosion/abrasion database. Concerning the tool development, technology to foresee damages on the static portion such as piping, etc. were developed. In the study of field application, conducted were analysis of maintenance flow, development of retrieval system of equipment parts/personnel/operation procedures and multi-functional repair car, etc. (NEDO)

  8. Fiscal 1997 report on the results of the international standardization R and D. R and D of a mobile office system (R and D of next generation mobile business terminals); 1997 nendo seika hokokusho kokusai hyojun soseigata kenkyu kaihatsu. Mobile office system no kenkyu kaihatsu (jisedai keitai joho kiki no kenkyu kaihatsu)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1998-03-01

    This R and D is aimed firstly at trially developing next generation mobile business terminals (MBT) based on the technical standards of MBT of which the standards were completed in the fiscal 1996 R and D of Mobile Office Promotion Association (MOPA), secondly at developing an evaluation method for trial terminals and establishing the technical standards of MBT through data communication among different terminals and confirmation of application motions, and thirdly at promoting the international standardization. The study was conducted in the following procedures: 1) making of a comprehensive examination-standardization working group, determination of the use of trial terminals and the MBT evaluation method; 2) trial development of the MBT standards and prototypes; 3) study of the MBT evaluation method; 4) evaluation test on the prototypes; 5) comprehensive evaluation. As the fruit of the study, the evaluation/test specifications were completed, and the evaluation tests among different terminals were conducted. As a result of the evaluation test, the transplantation of MBT managers was done almost with no problems. The MBT adaptability evaluation test was also done almost without problems. 6 figs., 6 tabs.

  9. Achievement report on industrial science and technology research and development in fiscal 2000. Research and development of synergy ceramics (Research and development of technology to prevent corrosion in petroleum production systems); 2000 nendo sangyo kagaku gijutsu kenkyu kaihatsu seika hokokusho. Synergy ceramics no kenkyu kaihatsu (sekiyu seisan system fushoku boshi gijutsu kenkyu kaihatsu)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    2001-03-01

    Achievements in fiscal 2000 were put into order for research and development of synergy ceramics aimed at completion of high temperature energy materials and ultra-precision materials. Activities were taken in the following four areas: 1) materialization technologies and advanced assessment and design technologies, 2) application technologies, 3) common basic technologies, and 4) assessment on composite function manifestation process. In Item 1), discussions were given on ultra-precision materials, high temperature energy materials, member designing basic technologies, materials to detect stress and microfine destruction, pore pattern controlling porous materials, and self-restoration and self-lubrication functioning materials. In Item 2), discussions were given on material and light selection functioning materials, high abrasion resistant and easy-to-process materials, high performance resistance materials for electric power devices, and flexible sliding materials. In the material and light selection functioning materials, their material selecting function was manifested by controlling micro pores through xerogelation on inorganic and organic hybrids. In the assessment of the composite function manifesting process, the wet type forming process was assessed, that uses microfine powder for model parts assuming cut members. (NEDO)

  10. Report on results for fiscal 1996 on development of superconducting electric power application technology. Pt. 2. R and D of superconducting wire, R and D of superconducting generator, studies on total system, R and D of refrigeration system, and verification test; 1996 nendo chodendo denryoku oyo gijutsu kaihatsu seika hokokusho. 2. Chodendo senzai no kenkyu kaihatsu, chodendo hatsudenki no kenkyu kaihatsu, total system no kenkyu, reito system no kenkyu kaihatsu, jissho shiken

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1997-12-01

    In fiscal 1996, the initial cooling test and rotary excitation test were conducted for the 70,000kW slow-response type model machine, with the basic characteristics of the rotor verified such as the cooling characteristics, shaft vibration characteristics, mechanical strength, and superconductivity stability, and with the results of the studies explained. The rotor of the 70,000kW slow-response type model was installed in the test site, and the field test was carried out in 1997. For this purpose, research test was performed by the element technology of the model machine and the partial model. The technological development items, trial manufacture and test items were field winding, multi cylindrical rotor and damper. Upon the test results using the element and partial model, the design and manufacturing were implemented of the superconducting generator of a slow-response type excitation method with the output of 70,000kW class. Performed were the basic characteristic test, long-term operation test and severity test on the assumption of abnormality, verifying the characteristics and reliability of the generator as well as obtaining data concerning an excessive electromagnetic force and heat generation. From the test data and the analysis/evaluation results obtained on the model machine, the 200,000kW class pilot machine was reviewed in the conceptual design. (NEDO)

  11. Report on results for fiscal 1997 on development of superconducting electric power application technology. Pt. 1. R and D of superconducting wire, R and D of superconducting generator, studies on total system, R and D of refrigeration system, and verification test; 1997 nendo chodendo denryoku oyo gijutsu kaihatsu seika hokokusho. 1. Chodendo senzai no kenkyu kaihatsu, chodendo hatsudenki no kenkyu kaihatsu, total system no kenkyu, reito system no kenkyu kaihatsu, jissho shiken

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1998-09-01

    This report explains the outline as Part 1. In fiscal 1997, the 10th year of the project, a multi cylindrical rotary model for which an in-situ verification test was finished was brought back to the plant and dismantled for examination, while the in-situ verification test of a slow-response type model machine rotor was conducted in combination with a refrigeration system. In addition, in the research of AC wire materials and oxide based materials, studies were made with a purpose of high characterization and long wire materialization. In the metallic materials, a 10kANbTi conductor was developed while, in oxide-based materials, research was done on performance improvement and wire materialization based on various synthesizing methods. The manufacturing, factory test and in-situ text were conducted for a 70,000kW model machine with the purpose of R and D of a 200,000kW class pilot machine. Examination was made on the test method of the 70,000kW class model machine, operation technology of a superconducting generation system, and the effect of introducing the superconducting generator into a power system. In the conventional refrigeration system, a single unit test was carried out for the liquefaction, liquid storing capacity, etc., of the system. The 70,000kW class model machine was put through a test for confirming the general operation including the refrigeration system. (NEDO)

  12. Research and development of a superconducting flywheel power storage system in fiscal 1998. Research and development of rotation control technology; 1998 nendo koon chodendo flywheel denryoku chozo kenkyu kaihatsu. Kaiten seigyo no kenkyu kaihatsu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1999-05-01

    Element technology research was performed on 'rotation control' aimed at practical application of a 10-MW class high-temperature superconducting flywheel power storage system. As part of the research, researches were carried out on small-size and middle-size models, low-loss control type magnetic bearing, and large-size models. For the small-size model, as a result of performing performance tests on the protective bearing by using a testing machine, it was revealed that the model is free of problems in the test for up to 5000 rpm. For the middle-size model, fabrication and installation were completed on a middle-size rotation control testing equipment having CFRP-made flywheel with a diameter of 1 m. In the control type bearing, as a result of adopting a homo-polar type magnetic pole, the rotation loss was reduced to about 1/5 of that of a hetero-polar type. The amount is about 75 W (12000 rpm) when the bias current is 1.5 A. Concept design was implemented on a 2-MWh flywheel bearing system supported with a high-temperature superconducting magnetic bearing as a full-size flywheel. The CFRP-made flywheel has a diameter of 4 m, and a circumferential velocity of 1200 m. (NEDO)

  13. Research and development of basic technologies for next generation industries, 'electrically conductive polymeric material'. Evaluation on second term research and development; Jisedai sangyo kiban gijutsu kenkyu kaihatsu. Dodensei kobunshi zairyo (dainiki kenkyu kaihatsu hyoka)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1988-03-01

    The research and development in the second term included development of raw materials, elucidation of electricity conduction mechanism, and development of methods to improve stability and a new processing method. Crystals of a large number of charge migrating complexes were grown to elucidate their electron properties and structures. A theoretical model was structured for the superconduction mechanism in the charge migrating complexes. Poly-p-phenylene vinylene-based polymers achieved {sigma}=1.1 times 10{sup 4}s/cm as a result of extension of soluble reaction intermediates. Poly-2, 5-phenylene vinylene doped with FeCl{sub 3} retained 10{sup 3}s/m for 165 days in nitrogen. Polypyrrole achieved 3.0 times 10{sup 3}s/cm in constant potential electrolytically oxidizing polymerization and extension at low temperatures. Polypyrrole doped with ClO{sub 4}{sup -} retained electric conductivity of 85% for 400 days in nitrogen. Electric conductivity of higher than 10{sup 5}s/cm was obtained by applying different kinds of doping into thin film and fiber formed graphite. The world's highest conductivity of 9 times 10{sup 5}s/cm was achieved particularly with discharge laminated and polymerized graphite doped with AsF{sub 5}. (NEDO)

  14. Achievement report for fiscal 1981 on research under Sunshine Program. Basic research on plasma-aided coal gasification technology; 1981 nendo sushine keikaku kenkyu seika hokokusho. Sekitan no plasma gas ka gijutsu no kiso kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1982-03-01

    Researches are conducted for the development of a technology of producing useful gases such as acetylene, hydrogen, carbon monoxide, etc., from coal by the use of the high temperature and high-density energy of the plasma jet. In an experiment using a 100kW 3-port plasma-aided gasification unit, rapid quenching tests are conducted using hydrogen and helium, where the reaction furnace is changed, the specimen feed device is changed, and the plasma torch head is replaced by a high-power head. In a test of the coal specimen, it is found that rapid quenching exerts a great effect on the prevention of re-decomposition of the generated acetylene into hydrogen and carbon black and that a rise in the hydrogen partial pressure results in a great decrease in the quantity of acetylene generated. The said torch head replacement increases the rate of the coal specimen infiltrating into the plasma flame, which brings about an increase in the quantity of acetylene generated. It is found after all that the conventional acetylene yield of 34g/kWh increases to 59g/kWh in a rapid quenching test in which the specimen is dried Akabira coal and the plasma is an argon gas plasma containing 40% hydrogen. (NEDO)

  15. Research and development of the industrial basic techniques of the next generation. Composite materials (Final research and development evaluation / Part 1); Jisedai dangyo kiban gijutsu kenkyu kaihatsu. Fukugo zairyo (Saishu kenkyu kaihatsu hyoka 1)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1989-05-01

    This R and D project is aimed at development of highly functional materials for aerospace devices, bringing into focus research and development of resin-based composite materials (FRPs), metal-based composite materials (FRMs), and evaluation of their properties and their design techniques. The basic target properties are heat resistance temperature of 250 degrees C or higher and tensile strength of 240 kg/mm{sup 2} or more for the FRPs, and heat resistance temperature of 450 degrees C or higher and tensile strength of 150 kgf/mm{sup 2} or more for the FRMs. This R and D program has been implemented for 8 years for development of raw materials, molding/processing techniques, quality evaluation and designs through information exchange and discussions of the experts in each area under integrated, close cooperation from raw materials to molding/processing. Most of the data indicate that the target properties and objects are satisfied or exceeded. It is therefore concluded that this project for the composite materials, extending for 8 years in 3 phases, has sufficiently achieved the initial objects. The unique techniques are incorporated in the raw materials, molding/processing processes, quality evaluation and designs. These efforts have produced the FRPs and FRMs of the world highest qualities. (NEDO)

  16. Comprehensive research concerning the development of effective utilizing techniques of biological resources (large scale research out of the framework). Seibutsu shigen no koritsuteki riyo gijutsu no kaihatsu ni kansuru sogo kenkyu (ogata betsuwaku kenkyu)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    1991-10-25

    This paper is a research report in which the cultivated production of forest resources, the development to useful substances and the systematization to take the root in a region were studied. The distribution maps of biological resources on respective woodland systems: that is, the nationwide distribution maps of the amount of resources in Japan as to the broadleaf trees in private forests and national forests, the available amount and kinds of tree were prepared. As for the establishment of cultivation technique of the super-short deforestation forest, that is, pursue of wooden growth to the maximum limit, the superior clone 26 system was selected from the willow group through the research of wooden cultivation and the clone which showed the maximum yield reached 24t/ha every year. As for the material preparation technique due to microbial enzymes, that is, the creation and breeding of fungi which have the high lignin decomposition power, a stock of fungi which has the high lignin decomposition power and the decomposition selectivity was created by the cell fusion and the UV (ultraviolet ray) radiation treatment. As for the use of effective components in wooden resources, many useful characteristics could be detected by applying the boiling, bursting and ozone treatment. As for the mushroom cultivation through the application of unused tree kinds, a new kind of mushroom for food service was selected to clarify the possibility of fruit body formation. The development of a new material from conifers is promising. 1 tab.

  17. Achievement report on commissioned research of R and D in fiscal 1999 on micro-machine technologies. R and D of micro-machine technologies; 1999 nendo kenkyu seika hokokusho. Maikuro mashin gijutsu no kenkyu kaihatsu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    2001-03-01

    With an objective to perform diagnoses and medical treatment in space limited portions in living organisms, research on micro-machine systems, research on a scanning type photographing unit in the medical micro-machine, and comprehensive surveys and researches have been conducted. This paper summarizes the achievements in fiscal 1999. In the research of a micro laser catheter, a prototype laser head having an outer diameter of 1 mm was fabricated, whereas composition was realized with a micro catheter having an outer diameter of 1.5 mm. With regard to the micro pressure sensor for catheterization, good active curving action was realized by a catheter in which a pressure sensor is mounted in the SMA curved catheter head. Research on the scanning type photographing unit has been carried out, for reducing further the diameter and size of an endoscope, on a photographing unit using laser beam whose cross section area of the tip optical section is about half of the conventional units. As a result, a high resolution scanning type photographing unit was realized based on the fiber optic system using a scanning mirror. In the comprehensive surveys and researches, items of information were collected in relation with the basic technologies for micro-machines. (NEDO)

  18. Fiscal 1997 international cooperation project. Report on the results of the research on environmental harmony type combustion technology; 1997 nendo kokusai kenkyu kyoryoku jigyo. Kankyo chowagata nensho gijutsu ni kansuru kenkyu kaihatsu seika hokokusho

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1998-03-01

    Out of the R and D on the environmental harmony type combustion technology, the results of the project carried out in fiscal 1997 were summed up. In the site survey, etc., visits were paid to France, Spain, Greek, Germany, the U.K. and the U.S. to have discussions and examine the trend of research on the NOx removal catalyst and catalyst combustion. In the actual R and D, the R and D were conducted on zeolite base NOx removal catalyst, oxide composite base NOx removal catalyst, alumina base NOx removal catalyst, direct decomposition type NOx removal catalyst, catalyst combustion, etc. In the R and D of the catalyst combustion, durability under high gas flow flux was examined of PdO-Pt/Ba-Al203 catalyst developed for low temperature use, which indicated that durability and low temperature activity were heightened. As high temperature use catalyst, high temperature durability was examined of the developed Pd0-La/Gd-ZrO2 catalyst, which showed that the durability was favorable. 322 refs., 261 figs., 55 tabs.

  19. Trend survey of the global environment adaptation type industrial technology. Chikyu kankyo tekiogata sangyo gijutsu doko chosa. ; Chikyu kankyo kanren kenkyu doko no chosa (nisanka tanso no kankyo fuka teigensaku ni kansuru chosa kenkyu)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    1992-03-01

    The paper studies the measures for reduction of environmental load of CO2 from the standpoint of chemical technology. As for methanol synthesis from CO2, accelerating of the reaction using Cu base compound catalyst is reported. Also, CO2 is methanated at high speed by low temperature waste heat using Ni-La2O3-Ru catalyst. Discussions are given on the subject for development of catalyst reaction relating to hydrogen production technology by methane reforming reaction using steam or CO2. Synthesis of polymetric materials by use of CO2 is also described. The paper mentions that it is indispensable to design high-function electrode and elucidate the reaction mechanism of electrochemical CO2 reduction for electrochemical and photochemical CO2 reduction measures. Moreover, in case of using solar energy, it is required to study photovoltaic excitation process in semiconductor electrode/ electrolyte solution interface. For production of hydrogen from CO2 by photosynthetic organisms and solar energy, the problem is control of inhibiting effect of oxygen combinedly produced. Described are production of polyhydroxy butyric acid and biodegradable polymer from CO2 and hydrogen by bacteria, and CO2 fixation imitating the enzyme reaction. 267 refs., 79 figs., 32 tabs.

  20. Research and development of basic technologies for the next generation industries, 'recombinant DNA utilizing technology'. Evaluation on the research and development; Jisedai sangyo kiban gijutsu kenkyu kaihatsu 'kumikae DNA riyo gijutsu'. Kenkyu kaihatsu hyoka

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1991-03-01

    Research, development and evaluation were performed with an objective of establishing the basic technology related to the recombinant DNA utilizing technology to create new microorganisms for processes in the chemical industry. The major achievements of the present research and development include establishment of the P450 gene manifestation system attributed from microsomes and mitochondria, and the success of the world's first simultaneous manifestation of P450 and reduction enzyme. Furthermore, the fused enzyme combining P450 and the reduction enzyme genetically was successfully manufactured ahead of the other countries, opening the way to industrializing the recombinant enzymes for use in bio-processes in the chemical industry. In creating a high-efficiency secretion recombinant bacillus subtilis stock, a bacillus subtilis host whose protease activity has been noticeably decreased was created. As an achievement of the research on the 'basic recombinant DNA technology', high-efficiency manifestation vector of medium level thermophile was created, and its usefulness was demonstrated. In addition, a host and vector system for high level thermophile was developed for the first time in the world. These achievements have opened the way to industrial utilization of the thermophilic bacteria. (NEDO)

  1. Research and development of peripheral technology for photovoltaic power systems. Research and development of redox flow battery for photovoltaic power generation; Shuhen gijutsu no kenkyu kaihatsu. Taiyoko hatsuden`yo redox denchi no kenkyu kaihatsu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Tatsuta, M [New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization, Tokyo (Japan)

    1994-12-01

    This paper reports the study results on R and D of redox flow battery for photovoltaic power generation in fiscal 1994. (1) On the production method of electrolyte, silica reduction treatment was attempted to use ammonium metavanadate recovered from boiler as electrolyte of redox flow battery. Silica removal rates more than 90% were achieved by crystallizing V as polyvanadate while keeping molten silica. It was ascertained in minicell experiment that trivalent and quadrivalent V electrolytes produced from recovered V are applicable to continuous charge/discharge operation for one week. (2) On development of battery systems, the relation between battery characteristics and physicochemical properties of carbon fiber electrodes was studied to improve carbon fiber electrodes. The efficiency of 80% was achieved at current density of 160mA/cm{sup 2} by use of layered electrodes, resulting in considerable cost reduction. Performance evaluation operation of the 2kW battery prepared in the last fiscal year was also carried out. 4 figs.

  2. Research and development of basic technologies for next generation industries, 'electrically conductive polymeric material'. Evaluation on first term research and development; Jisedai sangyo kiban gijutsu kenkyu kaihatsu. Dodensei kobunshi zairyo (daiikki kenkyu kaihatsu hyoka)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1985-03-30

    The research and development in the first term has searched widely different kinds of raw materials, elucidated electricity conduction mechanism, discussed processing technologies and evaluation methods. It also included molecule designing to develop new raw materials. A method for growing good single crystals of charge migrating complexes was developed, and (BEDT-TTF){sub 2}I{sub 3} crystals were found to manifest superconductivity at 8K under pressure of 1.3 kbar. In addition, elucidation was made on conduction characteristics of (TMTSF){sub 2}ClO{sub 4} being an induction superconductor, and on its superconduction mechanism. Polyacetylene films oriented at a high level by epitaxial polymerization were synthesized, the carrier hopping mechanism of polyacetylene was proposed, and the direction of increasing the conductivity was shown. It was discovered that cyanoacetylene is thermally polymerized at a relatively low temperature, turning into polymer with good orientation and easily into graphite. Polymeric intermediates soluble to polyparaphenylene vinylene (PPV) were synthesized, whereas these intermediates were found to have shaping and stretching properties, and conductivity of 2.8 times 10{sup 3}s/cm was obtained in PPV doped after the stretching. (NEDO)

  3. Overview of FY1997 human media technology R and D; 1997 nendo sangyo kagaku gijutsu kenkyu kaihatsu seido Shin energy Sangyo Gijutsu sogo Kaihatsu Kiko itaku jigyo. Human media no kenkyu kaihatsu seika hokokusho

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1998-03-01

    This paper reports a summary of results in fiscal 1997 of research and development of human media technology. Fiscal 1997 launched design and trial fabrication of the following items: interface to improve efficiency and safety of plant operators, accommodation of multimedia contents to aid Kansei design, city development design aiding technologies using contents retrieval and presentation technologies and virtual reality, and empirical evaluation technologies for safety, comfort and convenience. Specific study assignments were extracted on a virtual media technology, a Kansei media technology and a knowledge media technology being three elementary technologies for human media to make clear the research and development approaches to be taken in the coming fiscal years. In addition, a human media technology committee, a research and development working group, and an investigation working group were established. Also launched were investigations on research trends in the human media technology, and investigative researches on contacts of information needs in industries with human media. 59 refs., 114 figs., 24 tabs.

  4. Achievement report for fiscal 1981 on Sunshine Program research and development of photovoltaic power systems. Research and development of amorphous solar cells (Research and development of production of low-cost monosilane); 1981 nendo taiyoko hatsuden system no kenkyu kaihatsu seika hokokusho. Amorphous taiyo denchi no kenkyu kaihatsu (tei cost monosilane seizoho no kenkyu kaihatsu)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1982-03-01

    A low-cost production method is developed for monosilane as a cell film material, 99.9995% pure at a manufacturing cost of 4,500 yen/kg (100 ton/year unit). An experimental unit with a maximum capacity of 1m{sup 3}/H (1 ton/month) gas production is built, and whether it is practical will be clarified by the end of fiscal 1983. The whole monosilane production process, consisting of the electrolysis of eutectic liquid of Li chloride and K chloride, hydrogenation of Li to be generated by the electrolysis, and the generation of monosilane through the reaction of the hydrogenated Li and silicon tetrachloride, proceeds in one large molten salt tub. The chlorine from the electrolysis and Si as material comes into reaction in a salination furnace for the generation of silicon tetrachloride to be supplied to the process. Minor tests are made involving pressure control, distance between the electrodes and the effect of the diaphragm, stirring in the hydrogenation chamber, dust in the monosilane generation chamber, and the insulation of the cathode lead rod, and the results are reflected on the process of experimental unit designing and building. The unit has harm neutralizing facilities for safety assurance because much hydrogen and a little chloride are consumed while the unit is in operation, with some silicon tetrachloride to be retained in the unit. An infrared absorption method is used to analyze impurities in the monosilane gas, when the method exhibits a capability of detecting 2ppm of methane. (NEDO)

  5. FY 1991 report on the results of the contract R and D of the human sense measuring application technology. Volume 2. R and D of the physiological effect measuring technology (Part 1); 1991 nendo ningen kankaku keisoku oyo gijutsu no kenkyu kaihatsu itaku kenkyu seika hokokusho. 2. Seiriteki eikyo keisoku gijutsu no kenkyu kaihatsu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1992-03-01

    Targets of the total development is to develop technology to non-invasively/simply measure changes in physiological function for physical and mental stimuli and to develop a human sense measuring technology needed to realize 'comfortableness.' As a part of it, the following R and D were conducted in this fiscal year. As to the R and D of skin impedance measuring, measuring methods such as the conducting method and potential method were studied. Further, an experiment with a person to be tested was conducted using the experiment use electrode. And detected were skin impedance changes caused by mental strain stress which were distinguished from changes caused by external environment. As the blink reflection measuring method, the paper took up the eyelid micro-vibration method under consideration and verified effectiveness of the method. The data were acquired using the same person as tested in the above-mentioned experiment when he is not tired, and the extraction of parameters of blink reflection which change according to working loads was studied. As to the continued blood pressure measuring technology, a measuring method which gives no loads on the person tested was studied, and the measuring portion where stable output can be obtained was selected. In addition, small/lightweight continued blood pressure measuring instrument which can be used in daily life was trially manufactured and designed. (NEDO)

  6. Industrial science and technology research and development institutions in fiscal 2000. Research and development of human media (Report on achievements in research and development of high-level information system for petroleum plant); 2000 nendo sangyo kagaku gijutsu kenkyu kaihatsu seido. Human media no kenkyu kaihatsu seika hokokusho (sekiyu plant kodo johoka system gijutsu kenkyu kaihatsu)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    2001-03-01

    Having selected a petroleum refining plant as a large and complex system, a system was developed, that is capable of operating safely and efficiently a plant even by young operators by utilizing the human media technology that realizes information environment having a sense of unity with humans. With this system, if an anomaly is detected in the plant condition, the agent and the operator talk with each other freely, and necessary items of information are displayed on a large screen from moment to moment according to the priority thereof. Activities were taken in the following nine areas: 1) the total system, 2) research on an interface agent, 3) research on hypothetic plant indication interface, 4) research on a discrete cooperative treatment technology, 5) research on plant models and interface systems, 6) research on plant ontology, 7) research on significance indication interface, 8) improvement of tools to structure a large-screen integrated indication system, and 9) investigations on technological trends in foreign countries. (NEDO)

  7. `Joint Research and Development of Industrial Technology,` an international research collaboration for fiscal 1997. Utilization of 3D-woven C/C composite materials to machine components; 1997 nendo kokusai kenkyu kyoryoku jigyo `sangyo kiban gijutsu kyodo kenkyu kaihatsu`. Sanjigen ori C/C composite zairyo no kikai buhin eno oyo ni kansuru kenkyu seika hokokusho

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1998-03-01

    A polygonal mirror in a printer and the main shaft of a high-speed milling machine are used as models for the development of technology for applying C/C (carbon/carbon) composite materials to machine components that are required to turn at high speeds. Various C/C composites are tested for flexural strength and thermal expansion for the designing and manufacturing of C/C composites for the polygonal mirror and main shaft. The first coating on the C/C composite is deposited by laser/plasma hybrid spraying, and is a Mo coating. A spraying robot is experimentally built for homogeneous coating. In the case of polygonal mirror, an Al coating is deposited further by the gas-deposition method. The polygonal mirror proves excellent in both dimension and reflectance, and attains the target speed of 45,000rpm. In the case of milling machine main shaft, however, it is not strong enough to withstand 40,000rpm although it is a success from a viewpoint of coating technology and manufacturing technology. 15 refs., 33 figs., 13 tabs.

  8. Fiscal 1997 report of the R and D result of industrial science and technology. R and D on synergy ceramics (R and D on an ultrahigh-temperature gas turbine for power generation); 1997 nendo sangyo kagaku gijutsu kenkyu kaihatsu seika hokokusho. Synergy ceramics no kenkyu kaihatsu (hatsuden`yo chokoon gas turbine no kenkyu kaihatsu)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1998-03-01

    For development of high-efficiency power generation gas turbines using petroleum substituting energy, the process technology which can highly harmonize conflicting characteristics and various functions was developed for new ceramic materials. This paper summarizes the result in fiscal 1997. On design technology of the characteristics harmonizing process, the design and synthesis of ceramic precursors were made by using chemical reaction of metal organics. On analysis of fracture behavior by controlling microscopic and macroscopic particle shapes, orientations were observed by convergent ion beam. On control technology of a structure formation process, study was made on continuous pore shape control to form porous material with uni-directionally arranged pores in ceramic matrix, interface control between particles to decrease a plastic deformation temperature and improve a heat insulation, interface control between phases of a rare-earth silicate/silicon-carbide-based composite, boundary control between layers of piezoelectric ceramics, and boundary control of the composite where inorganic-organic hybrids occupy the interface between ceramic particles. 79 refs., 193 figs., 15 tabs.

  9. Achievement report for fiscal 2000 on the phase II research and development for hydrogen utilizing international clean energy system technology (WE-NET). Task 12. Search and assessment of innovative and leading technologies; Suiso riyo kokusai clean energy system gijutsu (WE-NET) dai 2 ki kenkyu kaihatsu. Task 12. Kakushinteki sendoteki kenkyu ni kansuru chosa kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    2001-03-01

    Search and assessment were carried out on innovative and leading technologies which are outside the development objects at the present, but are promising for the future. This paper describes the achievements in fiscal 2000. In the hydrogen manufacturing method using natural gas as the raw material, but not generating carbon dioxide, a method using plasma has the hydrogen conversion rate of more than 90%, capable of providing carbon black with added value. On a hydrogen selective enzyme hydrogenase sensor, verification was given on its sensitivity and response speed, but the discussion was interrupted because of difficulty in obtaining the enzyme. Naphthenic hydrogen storage and transportation media (easy in hydrogenation and dehydrogenation) were discussed, whereas the reaction promoting effect was identified in both of the super heating liquid film process and the membrane reactor system. Enhancement in output and efficiency may be anticipated if hydrogen-rich reformed gas is obtained by reforming methane (natural gas) by utilizing waste heat from a gas turbine of several MW capacity. Hydrogen liquefaction technologies using the magnetic freezing process was discussed as the fundamental research assignment, wherein fiscal 2000 has studied the basic design and optimal magnetic materials. (NEDO)

  10. FY 1991 report on the results of the contract R and D of the human sense measuring application technology. Volume 2. R and D of the physiological effect measuring technology (Part 1); 1991 nendo ningen kankaku keisoku oyo gijutsu no kenkyu kaihatsu itaku kenkyu seika hokokusho. 2. Seiriteki eikyo keisoku gijutsu no kenkyu kaihatsu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1992-03-01

    Targets of the total development is to develop technology to non-invasively/simply measure changes in physiological function for physical and mental stimuli and to develop a human sense measuring technology needed to realize 'comfortableness.' As a part of it, the following R and D were conducted in this fiscal year. As to the R and D of skin impedance measuring, measuring methods such as the conducting method and potential method were studied. Further, an experiment with a person to be tested was conducted using the experiment use electrode. And detected were skin impedance changes caused by mental strain stress which were distinguished from changes caused by external environment. As the blink reflection measuring method, the paper took up the eyelid micro-vibration method under consideration and verified effectiveness of the method. The data were acquired using the same person as tested in the above-mentioned experiment when he is not tired, and the extraction of parameters of blink reflection which change according to working loads was studied. As to the continued blood pressure measuring technology, a measuring method which gives no loads on the person tested was studied, and the measuring portion where stable output can be obtained was selected. In addition, small/lightweight continued blood pressure measuring instrument which can be used in daily life was trially manufactured and designed. (NEDO)

  11. Fiscal 1997 report on the results of the R and D of industrial scientific technology. R and D of synergistic ceramics (R and D of corrosion prevention technology for the petroleum production system); 1997 nendo sangyo kagaku gijutsu kenkyu kaihatsu seika hokokusho. Synergy ceramics no kenkyu kaihatsu (sekiyu seisan system fushoku boshi gijutsu kenkyu kaihatsu)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1998-03-01

    To heighten durability and safety of materials/parts for undersea oil drilling, the development of ceramic base materials was made by developing function harmony type process technology which harmonizes on a high grade contrary characteristics and various functions. The paper summed up the fiscal 1997 results. In the design of system formation, computational simulation technology was developed to the composite process and the diploid system. The development of multifunction simultaneous manifestation materials was trially made by the higher nano structure process. A study was made of control of microstructures of porous materials and matrix filling by the gas phase precipitation control. Proposed were selective control of grain growth from species crystals and the columnar particle orientation laminated structure of simultaneous manifestation of strength and toughness. By composite precipitation reaction control, studied were simultaneous dispersion of whisker and increase in density of matrixes, and harmonization with long fibers. Silicon nitride was trially made with low lubrication/friction coefficients and high strength. A simulation method for crack progress behavior evaluation was developed using a testing notched specimen heterogeneous microstructures. Analyses were made of brittle fracture mechanics and reliability evaluation. 273 refs., 344 figs., 29 tabs.

  12. FY 2000 research cooperation project on the comprehensive research cooperation for environmental technology. Research cooperation for technology for prevention of the water pollution caused by plant waste water in Vietnam; 2000 nendo kenkyu kyoryoku jigyo. Kankyo gijutsu sogo kenkyu kyoryoku (Betonamu koku kojo haisui ni yoru suishitsu osen boshi taisaku gijutsu ni kansuru kenkyu hokoku)

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    2001-03-01

    For the purpose of increasing the research capability of the Center for Consultancy, Training and Technology Transfer in Vietnam, research cooperation for prevention of water pollution was given for plants of the local industry located in the suburbs of Hanoi city. In the survey of the actual state of the water pollution in the industrial area in the suburbs of Hanoi city, the following was found out: In the area, approximately 110 companies of the production industry such as livestock feed, papermaking, dyeing, brewing, construction materials, etc. are in operation and are discharging the untreated waste water into rivers and waterways because waste water treatment facilities are not prepared yet. In this research cooperation, the following were carried out: detailed survey of specified plants and proposal for improvement, training of Vietnamese researchers/engineers in charge of water pollution prevention technology, invitation to/training at Japan of Vietnamese managers/researchers, seminar to be held on the site, equipment to be given that is needed to measure water quality. The equipment to be given is a portable multi-item water quality meter and analytical equipment such as spectrometer, atomic absorption spectrophotometer and gas chromatograph. (NEDO)

  13. International joint research of medical and walfare appliances; Iryo fukushi kiki kokusai kyodo kenkyu jigyo

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1995-03-01

    To further elevate the medical level and to actively enhance Japan`s contribution to the world in its effort to properly meet the task of advancing longevity of men common to all the advanced countries, investigations were made to study how international joint research should be conducted in the field of medical and welfare appliances. Candidate projects in international joint research and investigations up to fiscal 1993 were arranged, and explanation was made about the strategic and long-term research and development projects (started in fiscal 1995) about medical and welfare appliances undertaken by the Ministry of Trade and Industry of Japan. The two are quite similar to each other, the Ministry of Trade and Industry program comprising six projects that are micropores collection of blood/microdose analysis, high precision three dimensional image assisted diagnosis, less invasive surgery, artificial organs, care assisting intelligent equipment, and welfare equipment for care at home, centering about which international joint research should be propelled. Visits were made to the scenes of research and development of advanced medical and welfare appliances in the U.S. and Canada and their actual state was studied in search for possible joint researches. Further, research and development institutions in Europe were visited and information was exchanged. 25 figs., 15 tabs.

  14. Research and development of turbofan engine for supersonic aircraft. Choonsokukiyo turbofan engine no kenkyu kaihatsu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Yashima, S [Ishikawajima-Harima Heavy Industries Co. Ltd., Tokyo (Japan)

    1992-01-01

    This paper described the researched results of the demonstrator of a turbofan engine for supersonic aircraft (IHI-17). A turbofan engine with an afterburner was experimentally fabricated and various engine tests have been carried out since 1988. Although the engine size is small, the fighter engine specifications were applied to its design and the prior or simultaneous research on each component was carried out. As a result, the system integration technique by which an engine was assembled by integrating each component could be established. New materials and new manufacturing techniques such as turbine blades of single crystal, turbine disks of powder metallurgy and deep chemical milling for a duct were developed to use for the long term engine test and the prospect to commercialization could be obtained. The following techniques have been established and the results satisfying target specifications could be achieved: the three dimensional aerodynamic design of compressor and turbine, the adoption of air blast fuel atomizer to suppress the smoke generation, an afterburner of spray bar system and the mounting type FADEC (full authority digital electronic control) to control the engine with the afterburner. 4 refs., 15 figs., 4 tabs.

  15. Basic study on intelligent materialization of glass; Glass no intelligent ko zairyoka ni kansuru kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1997-10-31

    This is the report No. 98 issued by the Inorganic Material Research Institute. An intelligent material is a substance and/or material which responds intelligently to environmental conditions and exhibits functions. One of the features of amorphous materials including amorphous glass is a large freedom in chemical composition. These materials maintain order in short distance, but have as a whole the turbulent and specific atom orientation. Therefore, high tolerability in selecting the composition, and diverse synthesizing methods are available. A wide range of utilization may be conceived, such as introduction of the state of electrons having different valences in a structure, and the diverse chemical combinations. Patterns of existence of polyhedrons having different orientations, and how they are connected correlate closely with an external environment. Intelligent materials have high freedom against change in the external environment and are suitable to exhibit intelligent functions. Setting heat and light as the external conditions, attempts have been made on search and creation of intelligent materials based on state change induced by interactions between the two factors. Fundamental studies have been made on synthesis of different environment responding glasses and films, and on factors and phenomena for exhibition of the intelligence. 62 refs., 91 figs., 8 tabs.

  16. Study on search of unknown materials. 1; Michi busshitsu no tansaku ni kansuru kenkyu. 1

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1996-11-28

    This is No.92 report of National Institute for Research in Inorganic Materials, concerning search of unknown materials. Purposes of this study are to construct new chemical bond and reaction theory, to systematize the existing compounds, and to search and create the unknown materials, systematically. Structure prediction of electronic state was investigated by means of molecular dynamic method, to determine the electronic state and structure of multi-systems. For the magnetic semiconductors, interactions were investigated between the magnetic spin and electron or hole which is a carrier. The in-solid bond theory aims at clarifying the bond state of materials in which transition metal compounds and inter-electronic interactions are significant. Prediction of the electronic structure of unknown materials can suggest the design of new materials. In the fields of synthesis, design and synthesis of new inorganic ion exchanger and ionic conductor are investigated using Bi oxides and its related materials. There are a lot of compounds having various crystal forms for rare earth element oxides and transition metal oxides. To establish the system of material design, thermodynamics, phase equilibrium diagram, crystal structure, and physical properties of new materials were discussed. 168 refs., 127 figs., 44 tabs.

  17. Development of new supervisory system with ITV. ITV ni yoru kanshi system ni kansuru kenkyu

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Shimonaga, S; Matsunaga, R; Ono, H [The Kyushu Electric Power Co. Inc., Fukuoka (Japan)

    1994-02-28

    This paper describes an automatic trespassing supervisory system with ITV and picture processing (PP). The paper details an integrated control system and automatic supervision. The system functions to automatically detect a trespassing by means of PP, transfers items of information collected by sensors to a remote control center, and records relevant data. The operation principle consists of measurement of change in two or more images of moving bodies with binary value at a certain interval, determination on acceptability of the moving bodies represented by human characteristics, and identification of a trespasser. The system consists of an automatic supervisory device using PP and an automatic patrolling and searching device by means of sensor measurements. The supervisory device has images outputted from ITV and VTR processed by PP, host computer, and HD, and linked to an indication mechanism. According to the result of a site test at wireless transmission station of Kyushu Electric Power Company, the difference between measurement values collected by the searching device and those by the supervisory device was [plus minus]3% or less (other than EG output current), which is a useful value for verification. Although the basic technique has been established, practical use of the system still has some problems including performance improvement in picture processing. 37 refs., 38 figs., 18 tabs.

  18. Recent development in artificial photosynthetic model; Jinko kogosei no moderu ka kenkyu saikin no shinpo

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kaneko, M [Ibaraki Univ., Ibaraki (Japan). Faculty of Engineering

    1996-03-01

    In the conversion from solar energy into chemical energy (fuels) by photochemical conversion, an electron donor is necessary since all the fuels are reductive compounds. From the viewpoint of economic profit, water is the only one candidate as a cheap compound and existing impartially. In this paper, photosynthesis as well as the realization of its artificial model, and the relevant basic research executed recently aiming at the construction of an artificial photosynthetic system are explained. The main reaction of photosynthesis is the generation of carbohydrates by the reduction reaction of carbon dioxide with water as an electron donor and solar visual light as an energy resource. As a special example thereof, the UV photolysis of water due to the photocatalysis of a micro-particle system is introduced. The method of using a semiconductor and the method of using sensitizes are described as the photo excitation system when designing the artificial model. Additionally, as the research with respect to the construction of an artificial photosynthetic system, a photo-exciting charge transfer system is introduced. 27 refs., 1 fig.

  19. Risk communication. Risk studies in social science; Risk communication. Risk kenkyu eno shakai kagakuteki approach

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Asami, M. [Keio Univ., Tokyo (Japan)

    1995-11-05

    It is recently, that is, in and after the 1980s that socio-scientific approaches began to be made to studies on `risk`. It started to be made clear that the progress of the scientific technology does not necessarily bring about good news to man, and obvious estrangement has begun to appear between scientific evaluation and social evaluation of risk. The subject of risk communication (RC) study is to tackle a proposition whether the estrangement will continue to exist as estrangement or the estrangement can be made smaller by any means. This paper explains the recent trend of the study. For example, as for how each individual thinks about risk, that is, the risk perception, a new framework is trially being constructed by introduction of the quantitative method using psychometrics. A duty of RC is to serve to bridge the gap between scientific technology and society which are controlled by values which are incompatible with each other. Therefore, RC will be more and more important. 15 refs., 1 fig., 2 tabs.

  20. Research result information for agriculture and environment. No.12; Nogyo kankyo kenkyu seika joho. 12

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    NONE

    1996-08-26

    Essential purposes of productivity improvement, which human being have desires in agriculture for a long time, can not be discussed without considering relations with the environment, nowadays. In these situations, significant investigations have been created among the researches in the agriculture and environment field in response to the requirements of the time. In this report, results of 41 main researches submitted to the agriculture and environment research promotion conference in FY 1995 are compiled. This field covers the environment and resource characterization, the agrioecology, and the environment assessment and control. The environment and resource characterization field includes studies on the micro-meteorological mechanism of desert expansion due to excess pasturage, the salt removal function of clays, and the protection of ground water quality by grassland. The agrioecology field includes studies on the antimicrobial substance contained in Glycyrrhiza glabra against the soil decease of potatoes caused by Streptomyces scabies and the new plant growth obstruction substance contained in Sphenoclea zeylanica. The environment assessment and control field includes studies on the producing district change prediction of main grains accompanied with global environmental change and the carbon balance in the ecosystem of farm lands and rice fields. This report includes a lot of noticeable papers. 103 figs., 24 tabs.