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Numerical simulation tools are required to describe large deformations of geomaterials for evaluating the risk of geo-disasters. This study focused on moving particle semi-implicit (MPS) method, which is a Lagrangian gridless particle method, and investigated its performance and stability to simulate large deformation of geomaterials. A calculation method was developed using geomaterials modeled as Bingham fluids to improve the original MPS method and enhance its stability. Two numerical tests showed that results from the improved MPS method was in good agreement with the theoretical value. Furthermore, numerical simulations were calibrated by laboratory experiments. It showed that the simulation results matched well with the experimentally observed free-surface configurations for flowing sand. In addition, the model could generally predict the time-history of the impact force. The MPS method could be a useful tool to evaluate large deformation of geomaterials. Keywords: Particle method, Moving particle semi-implicit (MPS) method, Large deformation analysis, Geomaterials, Bingham model

Improving heat insulation in microelectromechanical system based thermal-type infrared sensor is crucial to increase its performance. The concept of phonon engineering allows us to change material thermal conductivity by several orders of magnitudes, which can be a potential technique for thermal management of such microelectronic devices. Here, we introduced a phononic crystal structure in a prototype thermopile sensor to investigate the effectiveness of phonon engineering. We demonstrate that ultrafine phononic crystal structure, which was consisted of through-holes periodically arranged at 38 nm, resulted in ten-fold reduction in Si thermal conductivity. This led to improvement of the sensitivity of IR detection by a factor of ten. In addition, our phononic crystal could suppress thermal conductivity while maintaining the electrical conductivity, which enable us to increase the noise equivalent temperature difference by 5.6 times. The present study demonstrates great potential of phonon engineering for infrared sensor technology to reach for smaller pixel size and lower device cost.

The prospective comparative case series aimed to evaluate the binocular uncorrected visual acuities (BUCVAs) after staged implantations of extended-depth-of-focus intraocular lenses (EDOF IOLs) targeting emmetropia and -0.5 diopter (D). Diffractive EDOF IOLs with an add power of +1.75 D were implanted in the first eyes targeting emmetropia or -0.5 D according to the patients' preferences, then the targets for the second eyes were determined 1 week or longer after the implantation. IOL powers were determined with the SRK/T formula. Consequently, the subjects were divided into 3 groups: those with emmetropia targeted bilaterally (group EE, 22 patients), those with -0.5 D targeted bilaterally (group MM, 21 patients), and those with monovision of emmetropia and -0.5 D (group EM, 21 patients). Manifest refraction spherical equivalent (MRSE), BUCVA from 0.3 to 5 meters, spectacle use, and questionnaire regarding photic symptoms and patient satisfaction were assessed 3 months postoperatively. No significant differences were seen in the mean BUCVAs at any distance (P > 0.23), spectacle use (P = 0.13), or photic symptoms and patient satisfaction (P>0.65). When the EE and MM groups were assigned based on the MRSE, the EE group was better at 5 m (P = 0.005) while the MM group at 0.5 m (P = 0.031). The effect of different targeted refractions was not identified due to insufficient accuracy in the use of the SRK/T power calculation.

To assess the safety and efficacy of femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS) in Japanese eyes. Retrospective case series. The clinical records of 529 consecutive eyes of 312 Japanese patients who underwent FLACS from 2013 to 2016 were reviewed. The completion rates of anterior capsulotomy and corneal incisions using the femtosecond laser (LenSx, Alcon) and the number of attempts to achieve secure docking between the cornea and laser system were recorded. The uncorrected and corrected distance visual acuities (VAs) and uncorrected and distance-corrected near VAs 1 week postoperatively were evaluated. Anterior capsulotomies were completed in 98.7% of eyes. The corneal incisions were incomplete in 8.3%, which included eyes with arcus senilis and neovascularization. The mean corneal endothelial cell reduction rate was 5.5%. Multiple docking attempts were required in 22.9% of eyes, while canthotomy was performed in two eyes. The postoperative VAs were favorable. FLACS was safe and reliable in Japanese eyes. Further improvements in docking are required to accommodate small corneas and narrow palpebral spaces.

We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of nab-paclitaxel in patients with refractory advanced non-small cell lung cancer who failed previous chemotherapy. Patients were required to have an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status of 0–2 and adequate organ function. Patients received nab-paclitaxel, 100 mg/m2 i.v. on days 1, 8, and 15 every 4 weeks. The primary endpoint was the overall response rate. Secondary endpoints were the progression-free survival time, overall survival, and the toxicity profile. From July 2013 to July 2015, a total of 31 patients were enrolled. Fourteen patients received nab-paclitaxel as a second-line and 17 received it as an over third-line therapy. Each patient received a median of 5 treatment cycles (range, 1–11). The overall response rate was 19.3% (95% confidence interval, 9.1–36.2%) (complete response (n = 0), partial response (n = 6), stable disease (n = 17), and progressive disease (n = 8)). The median progression-free survival time was 4.5 months (95% confidence interval 3.5–6.3 months), median overall survival time was 15.7 months, and 1-year survival rate was 54.8%. Most common grade 3 or 4 non-hematological toxicities were elevated aspartate transaminase level (3.2%) and sensory neuropathy (9.6%). Neutropenia was the most common grade 3 or 4 adverse events (38.6%), and febrile neutropenia developed in 12.9% patients. No treatment-related deaths were observed in this study. Primary endpoint was met. Single agent nab-paclitaxel showed significant clinical efficacy and manageable toxicities for patients with chemorefractory advanced non-small cell lung cancer even if late line setting. UMIN000011696 . The date of registration was July 11th, 2013.

A novel actuator toward a low voltage actuation and fast response in RF-MEMS (radio frequency micro-electro-mechanical systems) switches is reported in this paper. The switch is comprised of laterally movable triple electrodes, which are bistable by electrostatic forces applied for not only the on-state, but also the off-state. The bistable triple electrodes enable the implementation of capacitive series and shunt type switches on a single switch, which leads to high isolation in spite of the small gap between the electrodes on the series switch. These features of the actuator are effective for a low voltage and fast response actuation in both the on- and off-state. The structure was designed in RF from a mechanical point of view. The laterally movable electrodes were achieved using a simple, low-cost two-mask process with 2.0 &micro, m thick sputtered aluminum. The characteristics of switching response time and actuation voltage were 5.0 &micro, s and 9.0 V, respectively.

To evaluate the binocular visual function and depth of focus after staged implantation of diffractive multifocal intraocular lenses (MIOLs) with 3 different add powers following cataract removal.Prospective comparative case series.Setting: Institutional.Both eyes of 56 patients that underwent staged implantation of bifocal IOLs.In the first eye, MIOLs with a +4.0-diopter (D) add power were implanted. Based on outcomes at 1 week postoperatively and patient preference for near vision, 1 of 3 near add powers-+4.0 D (group MM), +3.25 D (group ML), or +2.75 D (group MK)-was implanted in the fellow eye.Three months postoperatively, the binocular uncorrected and distance-corrected visual acuities (BUCVA and BDCVA, respectively) at 5.0, 1.0, 0.5, 0.4, and 0.3 meters; binocular defocus curves; contrast sensitivity; and near stereopsis were measured.The MM, ML, and MK groups included 21, 18, and 17 patients, respectively. The mean BUCVA in the MM group was significantly (P = .003) worse than that in the MK group at 0.5 meter. The BDCVAs at 0.5 meter in the ML and MK groups were significantly (P.02) better than that in the MM group. The defocus curves with the -2.0 D refraction differed significantly (P.001) between the MM and MK groups. The binocular contrast sensitivity and stereopsis values did not differ significantly.Staged implantation of different add powers obtained better binocular intermediate visual acuity without degradation of visual function.

The microscopic crystalline structure (MCS) such as domain texturing, lattice tilting fluctuation and strain fluctuation in thick AlN films grown on trench-patterned AlN/α-Al2O3 templates was clarified by utilizing position-dependent X-ray microdiffraction measurements in combination with transmission electron microscopy observations. The results clearly demonstrate that the trench-patterned templates have a strong influence on the MCS in the thick AlN films. The MCS is anisotropic between the [ 11 2 ¯ 0 ] and [ 1 1 ¯ 00 ] directions. Periodic domain texturing was observed along the [ 11 2 ¯ 0 ] direction, corresponding to the periodicity of the patterning pitch of the template. Submicron crystal domains are tilted at different angles to the [ 11 2 ¯ 0 ] direction, and the crystal domain tilting becomes larger in the void-containing trench regions than in the terrace regions. This generates the periodicity in lattice tilting fluctuation and strain fluctuation along the [ 11 2 ¯ 0 ] direction. These were found to be caused primarily by two factors; one of which being the elastic strain relaxation that depends on the growth direction in the terrace regions, and the other being the inhomogeneity in distribution and morphology of dislocations that have Burgers vectors with a screw component in the void-containing trench regions.

We have investigated crystalline morphology such as wafer curvature, mosaicity, and lattice tilting of an AlN film grown on a triangular-striped AlN/α-Al2O3 template by X-ray rocking curve (XRC) and reciprocal space map (RSM) measurements. The result of XRC for the AlN (0002) plane showed the difference of the value in the wafer curvature between the [11–20] and [1–100] directions. This indicates the anisotropic strain relaxation preferentially along [11–20] direction due to the triangular-striped structure and the voids in the AlN film. From the results of asymmetric RSMs for AlN 11–24 and 1–104 diffractions, the broadening of the reciprocal lattice spots in elliptical shape was observed. These results reflect anisotropic crystalline morphology in the AlN film. The elliptical diffraction spot for AlN 11–24 predominantly indicates the lattice tilting fluctuation around the [1–100] axes while that for AlN 1–104 indicates the lattice spacing fluctuation. Anisotropic crystalline morphology in the AlN film grown on the triangular-striped template has been clarified in combination with XRC and asymmetric RSMs.

A fibre actuator that generates a large strain with high specific power represents a promising strategy to develop novel wearable devices and robotics. We propose a new coiled-fibre actuator based on highly drawn, hard linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) fibres. Driven by resistance heating, the actuator can be operated at temperatures as low as 60 °C and uses only 20% of the power consumed by previously coiled fibre actuators when generating 20 MPa of stress at 10% strain. In this temperature range, 1600 W kg−1 of specific work (8 times that of a skeletal muscle) at 69 MPa of tensile stress (230 times that of a skeletal muscle) with a work efficiency of 2% is achieved. The actuator generates strain as high as 23% at 90 °C. Given the low driving temperature, the actuator can be combined with common fabrics or stretchable conductive elastomers without thermal degradation, allowing for easy use in wearable systems. Nanostructural analysis implies that the lamellar crystals in drawn LLDPE fibres are weakly bridged with each other, which allows for easy deformation into compact helical shapes via twisting and the generation of large strain with high work efficiency.

Purpose: To evaluate the stability of visual performance after implantation of a diffractive aspheric silicone multifocal intraocular lens (MIOL). Methods: Thirty eyes of 15 patients received the Tecnis MIOL ZM900 (Abbot Medical Optics) after cataract extraction at Tokyo Dental College Suidobashi Hospital. The uncorrected and best-corrected distance visual acuities (UCDVA, BCDVA); uncorrected, distance-corrected and best-corrected near VAs (UCNVA, DCNVA and BCNVA); spherical equivalent refraction, spectacle independence, contrast sensitivity and posterior capsule opacification (PCO) were measured at 1 week; 1, 3 and 6 months; and 1 and 2 years postoperatively. Results: Two years postoperatively, the UCDVA was 0.01 logMAR, BCDVA −0.09 logMAR, UCNVA 0.19 logMAR, DCNVA 0.1 logMAR and BCNVA 0.04 logMAR. There was no significant change from 1 week through 2 years. The percent of spherical equivalent refraction error within ± 0.5 diopter was 63.4% at 2 years. No patient required spectacles for reading; two patients have used spectacles for intermediate vision when necessary. One eye underwent Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy because of PCO. Conclusion: The visual performance after implantation of the Tecnis MIOL was stable for 2 years. A low rate of PCO contributed to the long-term visual performance.

高レベル放射性廃棄物処分施設の立地地点が沿岸に近い場合には，地下水に海水を起源とする塩分が含まれている可能性がある．このため，海水が各種ベントナイトの透水性に及ぼす影響を把握する必要がある．そこで，本研究においては，各種ベントナイトに対する各種濃度の人工海水を用いた場合の透水係数ならびに膨潤圧を表現し得るモデルを提案した．このモデルでは，人工海水の濃度変化によるベントナイトの特性の変化がモンモリロナイト結晶の凝集と間隙水の粘性の変化により表現されている．さらに，既往の実験結果との比較を行い，海水を含む地下水環境下でのベントナイトの透水係数および膨潤圧を妥当に評価できることを示した．

目的:白内障手術後に遠方のみでなく近方視力も得られることを目的とした多焦点眼内レンズ(IOL)が開発され、各IOLの特徴を理解することが適応を決める上で重要となる。今回、屈折型、回折型多焦点IOL挿入後の焦点深度を測定し、単焦点IOLとの違いを比較検討した。対象と方法:対象は東京歯科大学水道橋病院にて白内障手術目的で屈折型多焦点IOL、回折型多焦点IOL、単焦点IOLを挿入された13例26眼で、術後1ヶ月以降に焦点深度を測定した。焦点深度は最良遠方視力の得られる屈折値をゼロ基点とし、プラス側は2D、マイナス側は5Dまで0.5D刻みで球面度数を付加した視力を測定した。結果:付加するプラスおよびマイナス度数を横軸、付加した際の視力を縦軸にしたグラフを作成すると、単焦点IOLは、最良視力の得られるゼロ基点を頂点とした一峰性のグラフとなるが、屈折型および回折型は最良視力の得られるゼロ基点とマイナス側でも視力が上がる二峰性のグラフとなった。屈折型に比べ、回折型はゼロ基点と-3Dに明らかなピークを認め、多焦点IOLでもタイプにより、焦点深度曲線が異なっていた。結論:多焦点IOLは、単焦点IOLに比べ近方視力の向上が期待されるが、屈折型と回折型では焦点深度の変化が異なり、今後適応を決める際、この特徴を理解しておく必要があると思われた。

Background Lung cancers with anaplastic lymphoma kinase rearrangements are highly sensitive to anaplastic lymphoma kinase tyrosine kinase inhibition, underscoring the notion that such cancers are addicted to anaplastic lymphoma kinase activity. Several anaplastic lymphoma kinase inhibitors have been identified and are being evaluated in clinical trials. However patients with poor performance status (3 or 4) were not involved in these clinical trials, it has been unclear to use anaplastic lymphoma kinase–tyrosine kinase inhibitors for these patients. Here, we report an anaplastic lymphoma kinase-positive non small cell lung cancer patient with performance status 4, who was successfully treated with alectinib. Case presentation We report on a 52-year-old patient diagnosed as non small cell lung cancer harboring echinoderm microtubule-associated protein-like 4-anaplastic lymphoma kinase fusion gene. His performance status was 4 because of severe respiratory failure. We treated this patient with alectinib as the first line therapy. Dramatic response was obtained and his performance status improved from 4 to 1 without severe adverse events. Conclusion Alectinib is a therapeutic option for the anaplastic lymphoma kinase positive patients with poor performance status.

Purpose To evaluate visual performance after contralateral implantation of AcrySof ReSTOR aspheric intraocular lenses (IOLs) with +3.0 and +4.0 diopter near additions. Design This was a retrospective case study conducted at Tokyo Dental College Suidobashi Hospital in Tokyo, Japan. Methods Eleven patients who were implanted with the SN6AD1 IOL and the SN6AD3 IOL contralaterally were included in this study. The distance, intermediate (1 m, 50 cm), and near (40 and 30 cm) uncorrected and corrected binocular visual acuity (VA), contrast sensitivity, depth of focus, and patient satisfaction were assessed more than 1 month postoperatively. Results Postoperatively, the mean uncorrected (corrected) binocular logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution VA levels were as follows: distance, -0.120 (-0.163); intermediate, 1 m, 0.226 (0.012) and 50 cm, 0.037 (0.006); and near, 40 cm, 0.067 (-0.040) and 30 cm, 0.091 (-0.053). The depth of focus had a smooth curve with double peaks. The mean contrast sensitivity was normal at all spatial frequencies. All patients were spectacle independent and expressed high satisfaction. Conclusions Contralateral implantation of multifocal IOLs with +3.0 and +4.0 D additions takes advantage of the good uncorrected near VA provided by both IOLs and may be an option for patients who require a broader range of good uncorrected near VA.

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a newly developed diffractive multifocal intraocular lens (IOL) with +2.5 diopter near add power (SN6AD2, Alcon), whose theoretical distance for near focus is 50 cm.This study included 128 eyes of 64 patients (23 men and 41 women, average age: 66.7 ± 7.2 years) following cataract removal at Tokyo Dental College Suidobashi Hospital and Hayashi Eye Hospital. Visual acuities (VAs) at distance, 1 m, 50 cm and 40 cm, and questionnaires were evaluated until 1 year postoperatively.At 1 year postoperatively, mean bilateral logMAR VAs were uncorrected -0.09 (5 m), 0.01 (1 m), 0.07 (50 cm), 0.18 (40 cm), distance corrected 0.01 (1 m), 0.08 (50 cm), 0.19 (40 cm), best corrected -0.17 (5 m), 0.00 (50 cm). From the patient's questionnaires, light or moderate glare was noticed in 17.5%, 4.8%, light or moderate halo was notice in 19.0%, 4.8% of the total patients.This IOL provides good distance to intermediate VAs and better near VA compared to monofocal IOL.

Background Listeria monocytogenes is a facultative intracellular parasitic bacterium that is Gram positive, catalase positive, oxidase negative, and a facultative anaerobe. It is known to infect humans through food. It is a bacillus with low virulence, but can cause meningitis and sepsis in infants and immunocompromised patients. Case presentation A case of 75-year-old Japanese female with small cell carcinoma of the thymus and pleural dissemination is described. She was treated with carboplatin and etoposide and showed a partial response. However, the tumor recurred 6 months later. Therefore, we again administered carboplatin and etoposide. Though peritoneal dissemination was suspected based on abdominal computed tomography findings after two courses, the assessment was stable disease. She was occasionally treated for constipation. She developed chills, rigor, and diarrhea, necessitating admission on the 7th day of the third course of chemotherapy. We suspected intestinal infection, and cefepime was thus administered. However, her blood pressure dropped and neutropenia manifested on the 4th day of admission. We therefore switched the antibiotic from cefepime to meropenem and also administered granulocyte-colony stimulating factor. Listeria monocytogenes was detected by two blood cultures, and the antimicrobial medication was thus switched to ampicillin, in consideration of sensitivity. Her general condition improved and she was able to leave the hospital on the 19th day after admission. Conclusions During chemotherapy, factors such as impaired bowel movements, malnutrition, and myeloablation can contribute to the development of severe infections. It is necessary to comprehensively assess a patient’s state and treat all aspects of illness.

The efficacy and safety of tinted aspheric multifocal toric intraocular lens (IOL) (SND1T3, SND1T4, SND1T5, SND1T6 : Alcon) were evaluated in 130 eyes of 65 patients following cataract removal.Visual acuities (VAs) at distance, near (40 cm) and intermediate (50 cm, 1 m), IOL rotation, contrast sensitivity, spectacle usage and glare/halo were examined up to 1 year postoperatively.The mean bilateral uncorrected distance VA was -0.04 ± 0.10 logMAR, near VA was 0.00 ± 0.11 logMAR, intermediate VA at 50 cm was -0.00 ± 0.11 logMAR, intermediate VA at 1 m was 0.11 ± 0.15 logMAR. IOL rotation was 5.73 ± 4.36 degrees, photopic contrast sensitivities were within normal range, and 76.9% of the patients did not require any spectacles. None of the patients complained of either serious glare or halo.The multifocal toric IOL provides better VA from distance to near at 40 cm.

To investigate the role of the endothelial pump in the attachment of the corneal flap during the early period after laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK).Department of Ophthalmology, Tokyo Dental College, Tokyo, Japan.The study comprised 30 porcine eyes. In all eyes, a corneal flap was made with a microkeratome. Five minutes after the flap was placed over the bed, the adhesion strength was measured with a load-testing machine. To inhibit the endothelial pump, ouabain was injected into the anterior chamber (10 eyes) or the endothelium was mechanically scraped (10 eyes). The control group included 10 eyes.The load needed to lift the flap was significantly lower in the ouabain group (0.21 gram force [gf]; P.01) and the endothelial scrape group (0.22 gf; P.01) than in the control group (0.61 gf).The endothelial pump plays an important role in flap attachment in the early postoperative period after LASIK.

Purpose: To determine whether staining of the lens capsule with trypan blue 0.1% and indocyanine green (ICG) 0.5% diminishes with time and whether it differs between the anterior and posterior capsules. Setting: Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan. Methods: Crystalline lenses removed from porcine eyes were stained for 10 seconds with 0.1 mL of trypan blue 0.1% or indocyanine green 0.5%. They were then placed in distilled water and observed for the persistence of staining over time. In a second experiment, the anterior chamber and internal aspects of the anterior capsule and internal and vitreous aspects of the posterior capsule were gently irrigated with 0.1 mL of trypan blue 0.1% or ICG 0.5%. After 10 seconds, the capsules were irrigated with distilled water and the staining intensities were compared. Results: Staining was not diminished 30 seconds, 5 minutes, or 1 hour after application of either dye. No difference was evident in staining intensity or diminution with time between the anterior and posterior capsules, but the external aspects were stained more than the internal aspects with both dyes. Trypan blue produced more intense staining than ICG. Conclusions: Since the intensity of capsule staining in the intact lens did not change during a 1-hour immersion in water, capsule dyes may not dissipate fully during cataract surgery. As possible long-term adverse effects have not been ruled out, capsule dyes should be used in a low concentration for a short exposure time.

We developed a new in vitro system to evaluate the effect of intraocular lenses (IOLs) on the migration of lens epithelial cells (LECs) and determined how acrylic and other IOLs influence LEC migration using this model. In an in vitro system, porcine LECs were cultured in a cell culture chamber insert, containing a collagen membrane, for 10 days with no IOL or with various types of IOLs. Migration of LECs beneath each IOL optic was observed with an inverted-phase microscope. The cell-free areas under the IOL optic, where the LECs had not migrated, were measured. Without IOL, LECs completely covered the collagen membrane within 5 days after plating (5.0 ± 0.0 days). Complete coverage was slowed by a silicone IOL (6.7 ± 1.2 days, p = 0.0305). LECs cultured with acrylic or with round- or sharp-edged polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) IOLs did not completely cover the area. Ten days after initiating cultures, the cell-free areas under IOLs with sharp edges (acrylic, 41.1 ± 8.0%; sharp-edged PMMA, 60.9 ± 39.0%) were significantly larger than under IOLs with round edges (silicone, 0.0 ± 0.0%; round-edged PMMA, 1.5 ± 1.2%). A sharp edge may act as a barrier to LEC migration. Moreover, LEC migration under the acrylic IOL slowed after the LECs had crossed the barrier of the optic edge, perhaps due to acrylic adhesive properties. Only a few LECs reached the collagen membrane beneath the central 3 mm of the acrylic IOL. This new in vitro model was useful in evaluating the effect of various IOLs on LEC migration. Acrylic IOLs inhibited LEC migration by not only a sharp edge but also other factors, such as adhesive properties.

Purpose To evaluate the changes in contrast visual acuity (CVA) based on the amount of myopic correction with laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK). Methods In this prospective study, patients with myopia ranging from –2.0 to –14.0 diopters (D) were divided into 2 groups: those with myopia less than –6.0 D (n = 20) and those with myopia greater than –6.0 D (n = 13). The CVA was measured preoperatively and 1 week and 1 and 3 months postoperatively using Variable Contrast Visual Acuity Charts. Results The patients with less than –6.0 D of myopia had a CVA decrease of 15% 1 week postoperatively, which recovered by 1 month, and a decrease of 2.5% 1 week and 1 month postoperatively, which recovered by 3 months. The patients with more than –6.0 D of myopia had a decrease of 15% and 2.5% at all postoperative times. Conclusions After LASIK to correct myopia of greater than –6.0 D, there may be a persistent decrease in intermediate and low CVA. Patients should be informed preoperatively of this possible decrease in CVA.

AIMS—To determine the effect of intact corneal epithelium on stromal haze and myofibroblast cell formation after excimer laser surgery. METHODS—Denuded epithelium alone, photorefractive keratectomy (PRK), laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK), or LASIK with denuded epithelium was performed in rabbit eyes. Postoperative anterior stromal haze was assessed employing a standard scale. Immunohistochemical methods were used to detect alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), a marker for myofibroblastic cells, and type III collagen in subepithelial corneal tissue. RESULTS—Three weeks after surgery, the presence of α-SMA positive long extended and spindle-shaped stromal cells, and synthesis of type III collagen were observed in the subepithelial stromal layer corresponding to corneal haze in PRK and LASIK with denuded epithelium, but not in denuded epithelium alone and LASIK. CONCLUSION—The intact corneal epithelium may play an important part curbing subepithelial haze and differentiation of myofibroblasts in corneal wound healing.

A simplified mass screening method for methylmercury exposure was developed using methylmercury-volatilizing bacteria from Minamata Bay. Some bacteria can transform methylmercury into mercury vapor. Most mercury in the hair is methylmercury, which is readily extracted with HCl solution. Black spots are formed on X-ray film due to the reduction of Ag(+) emulsion with mercury vapor produced by methylmercury-volatilizing bacteria. By exploiting these characteristics, a screening method was developed, whereby the fur of rats injected with methylmercury chloride formed clear black spots on X-ray film, whereas the fur of rats injected with saline did not. Subsequently, 50 human hair samples were examined using this mass screening method. The method identified people who had high mercury concentration, over 20 microg/g. A few thousand hair samples may be screened in a day using this method because it is rapid, simple, and economical. This method, therefore, enables screening of persons with methylmercury poisoning in mercury-polluted areas.

A method for the removal of mercury sulfide from mercury-contaminated sediments was developed, which consists of chemical leaching and volatilization of mercury by bacteria. More than 85% of the mercury in sediment containing 0.11-37.4 mg/kg of mercury was efficiently extracted with 3 M HCl and 74 mM FeCl3. Subsequent volatilization by bacteria resulted in the removal of 62.9-75.1% of mercury from mercury-contaminated Minamata Bay sediments. Methylmercury was also eliminated from soil at a high efficiency. Thus, this combined method of chemical and microbial treatments could be used for efficient removal of both organic and inorganic mercurials from natural sediments.

This paper describes a method for building three-dimensional deployable truss structures from the viewpoint of deployment reliability.In this regard a method is proposed for designing a closed-loop deployable truss structure for future large space antennas through a kinematic degree-of-freedom analysis of the mechanical system.Using this method, it is possible to attain a truss structure with the appropriate constraints.We have designed and fabricated a prototype and achieved successful deployment under a microgravity environment yielded by parabolic aircraft flight.Hence, the results have demonstrated the effectiveness of deployable truss design using kinematic degree-of-freedom analysis.

We describe how to build three-dimensional deployable truss structures from the viewpoint of deployment reliability. We propose a method for designing a closed-loop deployable truss structure for a future large space antenna by using a kinematic degree-of-freedom analysis of the mechanical system. Using this method, it is possible to attain a truss structure with the appropriate constraints. We have designed and fabricated a prototype of the proposed antenna truss structure, and have achieved successful deployment under the microgravity environment yielded by the parabolic flight trajectory of an aircraft. Thus we have demonstrated the effectiveness of the deployable truss structure design using the kinematic degree-of-freedom analysis.

Based on the investigation of the generation mechanism of the unusual noise generated from a laser-beam printer, it has become clear that self-excited vibration is produced due to the friction between the photosensitive drum and the cleaner blade, and the noise is its vibration noise. The vibration system is that of the tortional vibration of the drum, and the vibration mode is secondary. The self-excited vibration in the secondary vibration mode is caused by the drum structure and the friction force applied to the drum. This drum is made of a thin-walled cylinder having inertia on both ends. The friction force is applied uniformly and axially to the cylinder surface. In this case, the energy can be applied to the tortional vibration of the secondary vibration mode in the drum, and the existence of negative damping friction force results in the generation of the self-excited vibration. Since the vibration frequency is the audio frequency of 10.65kHz, it lies in the audible range. To prevent the vibration and the noise without affecting the function, appropriate and positive damping needs to be applied to the vibration system. Also, the method using friction loss is investigated and verified to evaluate its effect. This method proved to be effective, and it is confirmed that self-excited vibration is discarded, and the generation of unusual noise is completely eliminated. The generation pattern of vibration and noise described in this paper is not limited only to the laser-beam printer. In equipment such as plain paper copiers, liquid crystal printers and so on in which the same mechanical structure is required, the same phenomenon can occur. The cause and the countermeasure described in this paper are expected to be practically useful for development and design.

Introduction We present a direct (on line) reading breath analysis method for determining concentration of multi-target gas species at ppm level or less. Recently a growing awareness of the portable analytical utilities for health care, sports and clinical medicine, has highlighted the need for determining such low concentration levels of exhaled multi-gas species. For example a portable acetone analyzer demonstrated in literature [1] comprises two semiconductor-based highly sensitive sensors. However, the small change in the acetone concentration at less than 1 ppm is difficult to be recognized. This may be partly attributed to the indeterminate concentration of interfering gas such as ethanol. This is the problem and the portable breath analyzer for multi-target gas is not used generally yet. We focus on determining low concentration level of two target gas species in breath, acetone and furthermore carbon monoxide (CO). It is known that the change in the concentration of acetone is associated with a lipid metabolism and CO with a chronic airway inflammation [2]. The multiplexed sensing is a promising way for more detailed inspection of health conditions, considering the progress of the commercially available and reliable gas sensors. The preliminary discrimination between acetone and interfering ethanol is investigated by using an artificial breath. The determining method used in this test is multiple regression analysis [3-5]. We evaluate the effectiveness of the sensors for determining such low level of concentration, and the applicability to CO, the 2’nd target gas. Experimental Two semiconductor-based gas sensors ‘S1’ and ‘S2’ were embedded inside the chamber and the artificial breath containing acetone and ethanol diluted in high humidity air (>80 %RH), was introduced at a constant flowing rate (1,200 ml/min.). Then the change in the electrical conductance of the sensors in accordance with the concentration of acetone (CA) and ethanol (CE) were monitored. The transient time (10 % - 90 % of the saturation) of the sensors’ response at the injection of acetone were observed to be 10 s. This rapid change, which is essential to realize a direct reading breath analyzer, was achieved by making the chamber as small as 40 ml in volume. Though both ‘S1’ and ‘S2’ react to acetone and ethanol, the sensitivity to acetone of the ‘S1’ is higher than that of the ‘S2’. Figure 1 shows the conductance change of the ‘S1’ in response to 0.1 – 10 ppm of acetone (circles), ethanol (squares) and the mixture (triangles). The x-axis represents CA+CE. As the mixture (triangles) has a slightly inclined slope, it is evident that the ‘S1’ was interfered by ethanol. The interference becomes a problem especially in the region of CA Conclusions We discriminated the concentration of the target acetone from that of the interfering ethanol in an artificial breath. The estimation error was within 20%. The multiple regression analysis was necessary in determining the concentration of acetone as low as less than 1 ppm. The analytical method might be applicable to the three species problem (acetone, ethanol and CO) in the same manner. We prepared the 3’rd sensor ‘S3’, which sensitivity to CO is higher than that of the ‘S1’ and the ‘S2’. The discrimination test for CO is in progress. References [1] T. Toyooka, et al., J. Breath Res., 7 (2013) 036005. [2] K. Zayasu, et al., Am. J. Respir. Crit. Care. Med., 156 (1997) 1140. [3] H. V. Shurmer, et al., Sensors and Actuators, 18 (1989) 361-371. [4] CHR. Hierold, et al., Sensors and Actuators, 17 (1989) 587-592. [5] H. Sundgren, et al., Sensors and Actuators B, 2 (1990) 115-123. Figure 1

以上, 今回紹介したように, マイクロアクチュエータを実現するための1つの解決手段として, モータの製作・組立を大幅に簡略化する円筒積層プロセスを提案した.また, このプロセスを用いて直径1.4mmの静電ウォブルモータを試作し, 自転速度およびウォブリング運動の測定によりモータの出力に及ぼす要因を推定することで, マイクロマシン領域での円筒積層プロセスの有用性を確かめることができた.今後は, 収縮量が少ない均一なステータを構成する材料と形成方法の改善を行い, マイクロデバイスを実現する加工技術として確立を図って行く予定である.

We measured hair mercury concentration in Amerindians between 2004 and 2009 in Upper Maroni, French Guiana. Hair samples were collected from 387 residents (males: 153, females: 234). Average hair mercury concentration was high (males: 9.4 ppm, females: 9.9 ppm). We examined fish consumption by 37 residents. There was a significant correlation between hair mercury concentration and fish consumption. We also measured mercury concentration in polluted fish in upper reaches of the Maroni River. Muscle mercury concentrations were high in the fish. These results indicate that current high hair mercury concentrations in Amerindians remain linked to fish consumption.

Spherical porous silica glasses whose average diameter is 40μm are synthesized by the sol-gel process in W/O emulsions and a successive thermal treatment. The interconnected pore structure was seen in the particles. The pore size can be controlled by changing temperature of thermal treatment. The presence of residual carbons can be avoided by decreasing unreacted alkoxides with increasing water content of the initial solution in the sol-gel process.

In case of construction of repository for radioactive waste near the coastal area, the effect of salinity of water on hydraulic conductivity as well as swelling pressure of bentonite as an engineered barrier should be considered because it is known that the hydraulic conductivity of bentonite increases and swelling pressure decreases with increasing salinity of water. Though the effect of salinity of water on hydraulic conductivity and swelling pressure of bentonite has been investigated experimentally, it is necessary to elucidate and to model the mechanism of the phenomenon because various kinds of bentonites may possibly be placed in various salinities of ground water. Thus, in this study, a model for evaluating hydraulic conductivity as well as swelling pressure of compacted bentonite is proposed considering the effect of salinity of water as follows: a) Change in number of flakes of a stack of montmorillonite because of cohesion. b) Change in viscosity of water in interlayer between flakes of montmorillonite. Quantitative evaluation method for hydraulic conductivity and swelling characteristics of several kinds of bentonites under saline water is proposed based on the model mentioned above.Copyright © 2010 by ASME

The patient was a 36-year-old male. He visited our department in February 2004 as a prior chest X-ray revealed multiple nodular shadows. After further examinations, he was diagnosed with stage IV adenocarcinoma of the lung. As treatment, 5 courses of carboplatin (CBDCA)+docetaxel (DOC), 3 courses of CBDCA+gemcitabine (GEM), 6 weeks of gefitinib, and 3 courses of GEM were administered. However, the tumor progressed, and S-1 (120 mg/day, 2 weeks on, 1 week off) was administered as the sixth regimen from May 2006. No severe side effects were observed, and an antitumor action was achieved over a relatively long period. Therefore, it was suggested that a single administration of S-1 for non-small cell lung cancer, which had been treated with other multiple regimens, is safe, and long-term control of the disease can be expected.

A 44-year-old-female came to our hospital with abdominal distension in April 2005. She had been diagnosed with breast cancer in 1991, which was treated with mastectomy, postoperative radiation therapy,and a five-year course of hormonal therapy. An abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan revealed multiple hypoattenuated lesions in both lobes of her liver, which were diagnosed as metastatic breast cancer by liver biopsy. Weekly chemotherapy with paclitaxel was initiated on May 13. Trastuzumab and tamoxifen were added after two weeks. After six months of treatment, the CT scans showed reductions in the size of her multiple liver metastases along with the development of slight irregularities in the liver surface. Liver dysfunction was improved,and tumor marker BCA225 levels significantly decreased. After ten months of treatment, the CT scan showed nodular irregularity of the hepatic borders with deformation and atrophic changes. After twelve months of treatment,she was readmitted with abdominal distension and lower extremity edema. Increased ascites and appearance of esophageal varices were observed. Laboratory values were compatible with decompensation of liver function,although BCA225 levels still remained low. Despite discontinuation of chemotherapy and hormonal therapy at this time, she died from liver failure less than two weeks later. The atrophic changes and liver failure are suspected to have resulted from the chemotherapy and/or hormonal therapy.

To assess mercury exposure and potential risk, total mercury (THg-H) and methylmercury (MeHg-H) in hair were studied in 160 adults. The study group consisted of 60 individuals living in the north central coast of Venezuela. A section of the area was known to be contaminated with mercury from a chlor-alkali plant installed near one of the tributary rivers of the Caribbean Sea. The study group was selected from 4 inclusion criteria points. The control group was composed of 100 individuals selected from Carabobo state with no known exposure to Hg. A questionnaire was designed to collect demographic, health information, work activities and fish consumption habits. Hair samples were analyzed for THg. Samples with THg-H5 microg/g were also analyzed for MeHg. The mean THg-H was 1.88 +/- 1.50 and 0.99 +/- 0.87 microg/g for the study and control groups, respectively. The study group was statistically higher than control individuals, however, no statistical differences of THg-H were found between each of the 4 categories of both groups. Mean MeHg-H value was 3.67 +/- 1.25 microg/g. Associations were made between Hg-H and several variables. No significant relationship was noted between Hg-H levels and clinical symptoms. R analyses and t-tests were used to determine associations between questionnaire variables and THg-H. The main predictors of THg-H levels in the study group were fish consumption and frequency. As both groups presented relatively low values for THg-H and MeHg-H, the results of this study indicate that Hg exposure did not exceed safe levels. However, a more in-depth exposure assessment should be conducted to more accurately assess this exposure, specifically in terms of Hg content in water and fish sampling.

PURPOSE To review the effects of injured corneal epithelial cells on myofibroblastic cell formation in corneal stroma after excimer laser surgery. METHODS Denudation of epithelium alone, photorefractive keratectomy (PRK), laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK), and LASIK with denudation of epithelium were performed in rabbit eyes. Postoperative anterior stromal haze was assessed using a standard scale. Immunohistochemical methods were used to detect alpha-smooth muscle actin (alpha-SMA), a marker of myofibroblastic cells, and type III collagen in subepithelial corneal tissue. Rabbit corneal fibroblasts were cultured on collagen gels with or without cocultured corneal epithelial cells, or with partially scraped epithelial cells, on a companion plate separated by a permeable membrane. Gel thickness was measured daily to evaluate fibroblast-induced gel contraction. The total number of fibroblasts per gel was determined. Myofibroblasts were counted using immunocytochemical identification with alpha-SMA. Transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta was assayed in media on days 3 and 6; these procedures were also carried out in the presence of anti-TGF-beta antibody. RESULTS Three weeks after surgery, the presence of alpha-SMA-positive long-extended and spindle-shaped stromal cells as well as synthesis of type III collagen were observed in the subepithelial stromal layer, corresponding to corneal haze, in eyes that underwent PRK and LASIK with denudation of epithelium, but not in those that underwent denudation of epithelium alone or LASIK. Gel contraction, number of alpha-SMA-positive cells, and total cell number were significantly greater on gels with injured epithelial cells than on those without epithelial cells or with uninjured epithelial cells, as was TGF-beta concentration in media. Anti-TGF-beta antibody eliminated these differences. CONCLUSIONS The intact corneal epithelium might play an important role in curbing differentiation of myofibroblasts in corneal wound healing. Injured epithelial cells stimulate fibroblast myodifferentiation through one or more soluble factors, including TGF-beta.