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The strangeness photoproduction processes near the threshold have been intensively studied by measuring K + in reactions such as γ + p → K + + Λ ( Σ 0 ) . There has been no reliable data on the neutron and as a consequence theoretical investigation suffered seriously from the lack of the data. We have an effort to measure the γ + d → K 0 ( Λ ) + X reaction in the π + π − ( p π − ) decay channel of K S 0 (Λ) using a liquid D2 target and internally-tagged photon beams ( E γ = 0.80 – 1.08 GeV ) at Research Center for Electron Photon Science (ELPH), Tohoku University. We have renewed the spectrometer (NKS2) and took data with a liquid D2 target in 2005–2007. More recently, we took data in 2010 after a detector upgrade in the vertex region to substantially increase the acceptance. The results of Λ single measurements on a deuterium target were obtained for differential cross-section as a function of momentum, as a function of angle, and integrated cross-section as a function of beam energy. The results are compared with recent theoretical studies: Isobar models (Kaon-MAID and Saclay-Lyon A) and a Regge-plus-Resonance model.

Photoproduction of the neutral kaon on the deuteron has been investigated at the Research Center for Electron Photon Science, Tohoku University. We constructed the Neutral Kaon Spectrometer-2 for the detection of charged particles from the decay of the neutral kaon and the hyperon. We obtained a momentum distribution of K 0 with the inclusive measurement. It was consistent with the previous measurement. The total cross section of γ + d → K 0 + Λ + p was estimated from the measured integral cross section of γ + d → Λ + X. The total cross section with respect to the photon energy was compared with the theoretical calculations. It favored the Saclay-Lyon A model calculation with the ratio of the neutral to charged coupling constants of the axial-vector meson, K 1, as ~ −1.5. The energy dependence and the magnitude of the total cross section were similar to the total cross section of γ + p → K + Λ.

Double charged pion photoproductions from the deuteron have been studied at Research Center for Electron Photon Science (ELPH), Tohoku University. Tagged photon beams in an energy range of 0.67 ≤ E γ ≤ 1.08 GeV were impinged on the liquid deuteron target. Produced charged particles were observed with the Neutral Kaon Spectrometer2 (NKS2). The γ d → π + π − d process was clearly separated among the three charged tracks. We obtained the photon energy dependence of the normalized yields of this process.

Background According to Treat to target strategy, we have to consider changing the treatment in 3-6 months. Clinical course of RA treatment should be important to predict further outcome and to decide the therapy management in clinical practice. Objectives We aimed to assess the efficacy of abatacept (ABT) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients in switching and identify predictive factors at baseline for low disease activity (LDA) or remission using data from a multicenter registry, Tsurumai Biologics Communication Registry (TBCR). Methods From 2,771 RA patients registered until 2013, 225 patients with moderate or high disease activity received ABT were selected [switching for biologics failure; n=100 and naive; n=125]. We compared clinical course and baseline characteristics between biologics-naive and switching patients who achieved LDA. Predictive factors for LDA achievement were determined by multivariate logistic regression analysis in each group. The best cut-off of DAS28-CRP until 24 weeks for LDA achievement at 52 weeks was determined using Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve. Results Baseline characteristics of study population (n=225) was mean age; 64.7yeras, disease duration; 11.5 years and baseline DAS28-CRP; 4.70, concomitant MTX use; 49.3% (mean dose; 7.3 mg/week). The biologics-naive patients could achieve LDA at 52 weeks significantly more than in biologics-switching patients (56.0% vs 23.0%, p Conclusions In switching to ABT, disease activity at 12weeks and clinical response up to 12 weeks were important information for prediction of long-term outcome. Disclosure of Interest T. Kojima Grant/research support from: Takeda Pharma Corporation, Janssen Pharmaceutical, and Astellas Pharma Corporation., Speakers bureau: Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, Takeda Pharma Corporation, Eisai Pharma Corporation, Abbvie, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Pfizer, Chugai Pharma Corporation, Janssen Pharmaceutical, and Astellas Pharma Corporation, N. Takahashi: None declared, A. Kaneko Speakers bureau: Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma, Takeda Pharma, Eisai Pharma, Chugai Pharma, Abbott, Bristol-Myers Squibb, UCB, Janssen, and Pfizer, D. Kida: None declared, Y. Hirano Speakers bureau: AbbVie Japan, Eisai, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma, Pfizer, Chugai Pharmaceutical, and Bristol-Myers Squibb, T. Fujibayashi: None declared, Y. Yabe: None declared, H. Takagi: None declared, T. Oguchi: None declared, H. Miyake: None declared, T. Kato: None declared, T. Watanabe: None declared, M. Hayashi: None declared, T. Shioura: None declared, Y. Kanayama: None declared, K. Funahashi: None declared, S. Asai: None declared, Y. Yoshioka: None declared, K. Terabe: None declared, T. Takemoto: None declared, N. Asai: None declared, N. Ishiguro Grant/research support from: Daiichi Sankyo, Takeda Pharmaceutical, Hisamitsu Pharmaceutical, Otsuka Pharmaceutical, Taisho Toyama Pharmaceutical, Kaken Pharmaceutical, Eisai, Janssen Pharmaceutical, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Abbott Japan, Chugai Pharmaceutical, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharmaceutical, Astellas Pharma, and Pfizer Japan., Speakers bureau: Daiichi Sankyo, Takeda Pharmaceutical, Hisamitsu Pharmaceutical, Otsuka Pharmaceutical, Taisho Toyama Pharmaceutical, Kaken Pharmaceutical, Eisai, Janssen Pharmaceutical, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Abbott Japan, Chugai Pharmaceutical, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharmaceutical, Astellas Pharma, and Pfizer Japan.

Background: We have previously demonstrated by 31P nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) that succinylcholine (SCh) induces metabolic changes in denervated muscle. To specify those changes, we attempted to inhibit them using two different kinds of drugs, dantrolene and vecuronium. Methods: Three weeks after unilateral sciatic nerve section, 75 male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to one of the following 5 groups: (1) non-pretreated normal muscle group; (2) non-pretreated denervated muscle group; (3) denervated muscle group pretreated with a low dose of vecuronium (0.02 mg · kg-1); (4) denervated muscle group pretreated with a high dose of vecuronium (0.2 mg · kg-1); (5) denervated muscle group pretreated with dantrolene (2 mg · kg-1). The change of the inorganic phosphate/phosphocreatine (Pi/PCr) ratio of each muscle was measured by 31P-NMR before and after SCh (1 mg · kg-1) administration and the corresponding peak amplitude of the electromyograms (EMG) was determined. Results: The high dose of vecuronium totally inhibited SCh-induced fasciculation on EMG (100%2%). In this group, though the Pi/PCr ratio significantly increased 10 min after SCh, the peak after 5 min disappeared. The inhibition with dantrolene was about the same order of magnitude as with the low dose of vecuronium (35%:21%). However, the increase in the Pi/PCr only lasted about 10 min, in contrast to the other drugs. Conclusion: Our findings indicate that the Pi/PCr increases 5 and 10 min after SCh, respectively, as a result of two different processes. The first peak is caused by an excessive energy consumption in response to excessive muscle contraction. This in turn triggers the second peak, caused by breakdown of glycogen, initiated by an increased Ca2+ concentration.

Preliminary investigations for the interactions between surfaces of polymers and water were conducted by the measurements of contact (θ) and sliding-angles (α) with water. Work of adhesion (W) and interaction energies were subsequently calculated by using the values of θ and α, respectively. For the evaluation of actual performances of polymeric materials, shear strength of ice adhesion and snow accretion were measured. Characteristics of homogeneous surfaces of polymers in the interaction with water were obtained. On the basis of these concepts, the materials with heterogeneous surfaces were synthesized. Results of surface characterizations in these polymers showed that the relationship between θ and α, and the other surface attributes are very different according to polymer systems. The surface controlled energetically and morphologically, and the superior hydrophobic property prevented the snow accretion, but not ice adhesion. On the other hand, the organopolysiloxane modified with lithium compound provided the lowest strength of ice adhesion, but a poor capability of snow repellency. In the structural and energetic viewpoints', interactions between heterogeneous surfaces and water (snow and ice) were discussed. For the theoretical prediction, the intermolecular energies between model polymers and water were calculated by using a molecular orbital SCF method. The order of interactions calculated were coincident with experimental values deduced from α, but not from θ. The advantage of heterogeneity of surface was supported by the theoretical understanding. © 1994 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

The elementary photo-strangeness production process has been intensively studied based on the high-quality data of the charged kaon channel, γ + p → K+ + Λ(Σ0). However, there had been no reliable data for the neutral kaon channel γ + n → K0 + Λ(Σ0) and the theoretical investigations suffer seriously from the lack of the data. In order to have reliable data for the neutral kaon photo-production data, substantial effort has been made to measure the γ + n → K0 + Λ process in the π+π- decay channel, using a liquid deuterium target and a tagged photon beam (Eγ = 0.8-1.1 GeV ) in the threshold region at the Laboratory of Nuclear Science (LNS), Tohoku University. We have taken exploratory data quite successfully with the use of Neutral Kaon Spectrometer (NKS) at LNS-Tohoku in 2003 and 2004. The data is compared to theoretical models and it indicates a hint that the K0 differential cross section has a backward peak in the energy region. The second generation of the experiment, NKS2, is designed to extend the NKS experiment by considerably upgrading the original neutral kaon spectrometer, fully replacing the spectrometer magnet, tracking detectors and all the trigger counters. The new spectrometer NKS2 has significantly larger acceptance for neutral kaons compared with NKS, particularly covering forward angles and much better invariant mass resolution. The estimated acceptance of NKS2 is three (ten) times larger for [Formula: see text] than that of NKS. The spectrometer is newly constructed and installed at the Laboratory of Nuclear Science, Tohoku University in 2005. The deuterium target data was taken with tagged photon beam in 2006-2007. We will report recent results of NKS2 in this paper. Additionally, a status of the upgrade project that gives us larger acceptance and capability of K0 + Λ coincidence measurement will be presented.

Keywords: Musca domestica vicina; housefly; Escherichia coli; O157:H7; VTEC; haemolytic uraemic syndrome; mechanical vector; Japan

Anti-reflection coating (ARC) is well known as an important technique to enhance solar cell performance. Typical ARC has been applied on the glass surface to reduce light reflection loss at the air/glass interface. However, reflection loss occurs not only at glass surface but also at other interfaces such as glass/transparent conductive oxide (TCO) interface. The refractive index of SiNx is tunable from 1.6 to 2.7, and the range from 1.7 to 2.0 is suitable for ARC at glass/TCO interface. In this study, we examined the AR effect of silicon nitride (SiNx) deposited by plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition at the glass/TCO interface with thin film silicon solar cell and module. Reflectivity reduction of 1.6% for glass/ZnO substrate has been obtained with optimal SiNx layer, which contribute 2.0% gain in cell efficiency. Besides, we also confirmed the relative efficiency gain of around 2% for large-sized solar module, leading to a world-record large area stabilized module conversion efficiency of 12.34%.

Background According to Treat to target strategy, we have to consider changing the treatment in 3-6 months. Clinical course of RA treatment should be important to predict further outcome and to decide the therapy management in clinical practice. Objectives We aimed to identify predictive factors for low disease activity (LDA) achievement and for clinical course to LDA in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients switching from tumor necrosis factor inhibitors (TNFis) to abatacept (ABT) with low dose or no methotrexate (MTX) using multicenter Tsurumai Biologics Communication Registry. Methods From 2,771 RA patients registered in the Tsurumai Biologics Communication Registry until 2013, 76 with moderate or high disease activity who received ABT in switching from TNFis were selected. Relationship between response until 24 weeks and achievement of LDA or remission at 52 weeks was explored using ROC curve. The association of previous TNFis to achievement of LDA or remission at each follow-up period (4-52w) was also determined by adjusting factors at baseline with multivariate logistic regression analyses. Results Baseline characteristics of study population (n=76) was mean age; 63.4years, disease duration; 13.2 years and baseline DAS28-CRP; 4.90, concomitant MTX use; 52.6% (mean dose; 7.8 mg/week). Previous TNFis were as follows; infliximab (IFX) 14 cases, etanercept (ETN) 41 cases, adalimumab (ADA) 21 cases. DAS28 significantly improved to 3.58 at 52 weeks; 26.3% of patients achieved LDA (Fig.1). DAS28-CRP at 4 and 12 weeks had significant association with LDA at 52 weeks (AUC; 0.74, and 0.86, respectively) while that at baseline did not based on ROC curves (Fig. 2). LDA achievement at 52 weeks was comparable among previous TNFis while there were significant differences in LDA achievement rate and DAS28-CRP at 12weeks by previous TNFis (Fig. 3). Multivariate analysis confirmed that DAS28-CRP Conclusions Clinical course until 12 weeks is important to predict long-term outcome even in switching from TNFi to ABT. The clinical course to LDA achievement could be influenced by previous TNFi. Disclosure of Interest T. Kojima Grant/research support from: Takeda Pharma Corporation, Janssen Pharmaceutical, and Astellas Pharma Corporation, Speakers bureau: Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, Takeda Pharma Corporation, Eisai Pharma Corporation, Abbvie, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Pfizer, Chugai Pharma Corporation, Janssen Pharmaceutical, and Astellas Pharma Corporation, N. Takahashi: None declared, A. Kaneko Speakers bureau: Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma, Takeda Pharma, Eisai Pharma, Chugai Pharma, Abbott, Bristol-Myers Squibb, UCB, Janssen, and Pfizer, D. Kida: None declared, Y. Hirano Speakers bureau: AbbVie Japan, Eisai, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma, Pfizer, Chugai Pharmaceutical, and Bristol-Myers Squibb, T. Fujibayashi: None declared, Y. Yabe: None declared, H. Takagi: None declared, T. Oguchi: None declared, H. Miyake: None declared, T. Kato: None declared, T. Watanabe: None declared, M. Hayashi: None declared, T. Shioura: None declared, Y. Kanayama: None declared, K. Funahashi: None declared, S. Asai: None declared, Y. Yoshioka: None declared, K. Terabe: None declared, T. Takemoto: None declared, N. Asai: None declared, N. Ishiguro Grant/research support from: Daiichi Sankyo, Takeda Pharmaceutical, Hisamitsu Pharmaceutical, Otsuka Pharmaceutical, Taisho Toyama Pharmaceutical, Kaken Pharmaceutical, Eisai, Janssen Pharmaceutical, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Abbott Japan, Chugai Pharmaceutical, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharmaceutical, Astellas Pharma, and Pfizer Japan., Speakers bureau: Daiichi Sankyo, Takeda Pharmaceutical, Hisamitsu Pharmaceutical, Otsuka Pharmaceutical, Taisho Toyama Pharmaceutical, Kaken Pharmaceutical, Eisai, Janssen Pharmaceutical, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Abbott Japan, Chugai Pharmaceutical, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharmaceutical, Astellas Pharma, and Pfizer Japan.

Objectives We evaluated retention rate and discontinuation due to efficacy and safety of Adalimumab (ADA) in Japanese patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in daily practice. Methods All RA patients (n=476) who underwent ADA treatment in the multicenter study group TBCR (Tsurumai Biologics Communication Registry) were enrolled in this study (Table1). Kaplan-Meier curves were generated to estimate the continuation rate and probabilities for therapy discontinuation, and discontinuation for different baseline characteristics were compared using the cox proportional hazards regression analysis. The sensitivity and specificity for the best cut-off rate was analyzed by a receiver-operated characteristic (ROC) curve. An incidence of adverse event (AE) was examined using per 100 patient-years (PY). Results The continuation rate of ADA therapy was 46% at 5 years. 116 patients discontinued ADA because of insufficient efficacy. Targeting the insufficient effective example, baseline previous use of biologics was a significant risk factor (hazard ratio [HR] 1.89, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.13-3.17, p Conclusions The continuation rate of ADA therapy was 46% at 5 years. We considered concomitant MTX use is necessary in the long-term stable effectiveness of ADA therapy. Disclosure of Interest Y. Hattori Grant/research support from: Chugai Pharma Corporation, Pfizer, Abbvie, UCB, Bristol-Myers Squibb Janssen Pharma, and Nichi-Iko Pharmaceutical Corporation., A. Kaneko Grant/research support from: Chugai Pharma Corporation, Pfizer, Abbvie, UCB, Bristol-Myers Squibb Janssen Pharma, and Nichi-Iko Pharmaceutical Corporation., D. Kida Grant/research support from: Chugai Pharma Corporation, Pfizer, Abbvie, UCB, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Janssen Pharma, and Nichi-Iko Pharmaceutical Corporation., Y. Hirano Speakers bureau: Abbvie, Eisai Corporation, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, Takeda Pharma Corporation, Pfizer, Chugai Pharma Corporation, and Bristol-Myers Squibb., T. Fujibayashi: None declared, N. Takahashi Speakers bureau: Abbvie, Eisai Corporation, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, Pfizer, Chugai Pharma Corporation, and Bristol-Myers Squibb., K. Terabe: None declared, H. Kanda Grant/research support from: Chugai Pharma Corporation, Pfizer, Abbvie, UCB, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Janssen Pharma, and Nichi-Iko Pharmaceutical Corporation., T. Kojima Speakers bureau: Takeda Pharma Corporation, Janssen Pharmaceutical, Astellas Pharma Corporation, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, Takeda Pharma Corporation, Eisai Pharma Corporation, Abbvie, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Pfizer, and Chugai Pharma Corporation, N. Ishiguro Speakers bureau: AbbVie, Chugai Pharma Corporation, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, Daiichi-Sankyo, Eisai Pharma Corporation, Pfizer, and Takeda Pharma Corporation.

We have employed a triode-type plasma CVD system to fabricate highly stabilized hydrogenated amorphous silicon (a-Si:H) solar cells. The p-i-n type solar cells were fabricated on a textured SnO2/glass substrate (ASAHI VU type). By applying a triode system, the Si-H2 bond density in the film decreased to about one third (from 1.7 at.% for conventional parallel-plate-electrode to 0.6 at.% for a triode configuration), and correspondingly the degradation ratio decreased from 13 % to 10 %. We have achieved the degradation ratio of 5 % by optimizing the player deposition conditions. In case of a triode system, there were minor effects of higher hydrogen dilution in the stabilized efficiency. We have experimented the effects of the substrate temperature for a higher stabilized efficiency. Further improvement in solar efficiency has been made by applying antireflection layers to air/glass and TCO/p interfaces. As a result, we have achieved the stabilized efficiency of 9.22 % (Jsc = 15.9 mA/cm2, Voc = 0.863 V, FF = 0.672) with a degradation ratio of 7.8 %. We have also employed the triode-deposited a-Si:H solar cell to a tandem type solar cell with a structure of a-Si:H/hydrogenated microcrystalline silicon (μc-Si:H). We have achieved the stabilized efficiency of 10.9 % (Jsc = 12.0 mA/cm2, Voc = 1.31 V, FF = 0.691) with a degradation ratio of 7.3 %.

Elongation of the pterygoid hamulus is a rare syndrome that shows various and complex symptoms in the palatal and pharyngeal region. A case of elongated pterygoid hamulus syndrome in a 47-year old man is reported here.

We evaluated cerebrovascular events (cerebral infarction or cerebral bleeding) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).Prognosis and the causes of death among 1100 RA patients from 1995 to 1999, were analyzed. 34 RA patients were complicated by cerebrovascular events. About them, hemoglobin, platelet, C-reactive protein, rheumatoid factor, total cholesterol, triglyceride, duration of disease, functional class, and dose of steroids per day were measured.Among 1100 patients with RA, 90 died at the age of 70.2. Of these patients, 24 (26.7%) died of cerebrovascular events, 19 (21.1%) of heart failure, 16 (17.8%) of infectious diseases, 10 (11.1%) of malignant tumors, and 9 (10%) of renal failure. When RA patients who died of cerebrovascular events were compared with those who died of other causes, the dose of steroid was significantly lower and the age was higher in RA patients who died of cerebrovascular events. However, there were no significant differences in total cholesterol and triglyceride levels between the two groups. Although the major cause of death in RA patients was reported to be complication by cardiovascular diseases, infectious diseases, or renal failure, the frequency of deaths was higher in elderly RA patients complicated by cerebrovascular events. When the frequency of complication by cerebrovascular events was investigated in all RA patients including those who survived, 24 died and 10 survived. The frequency of complication by cerebral infarction was higher than that of complication by cerebral bleeding in RA patients who died of cerebral events.RA patients can live longer with improvements in care and treatment, the number of elderly RA patients who may died of complication by cerebrovascular events may gradually increase.

For several years, amphetamine misuse by high school students has been increasing in Japan. The Japanese National Police Agency announced that the third widespread use of amphetamines has started, especially among adolescents. However, there are few data on misuse of amphetamines or other substance abuse among high school students except for solvent inhalation. This is a preliminary survey report concerning substance abuse and substance-related problems among high school students. We surveyed 3393 high school students from 8 high schools in Kanagawa Prefecture and Kyushu Area on drinking and smoking status, and experience of illegal substance use. The results showed that 5.1% of the high school students had experiences of solvents inhalation, 1.1% of marijuana use, and 0.8% of amphetamine use. Around these illegal drug misusers, there were many reserves, such as students who experienced temptation to use solvents (13.6%), marijuana (2.4%), and amphetamines (2.5%), and those who responded that they wanted to use solvents (3.7%), marijuana (3.5%), and amphetamines (2.4%) if they were tempted. The prevalence of illegal drug misusers and reserves was not significantly different between male and female students, and they were concentrated among problem drinkers by the QF Scale and among current smokers. Prevalence of illegal drug misuse among Japanese high school students can not be estimated from the results of the survey because the subjects were limited to two areas and a small number of schools.

Background Matrix metalloproteinase-3 (MMP-3) is involved in disruptive events in the cartilage and bone of inflamed joints. In addition, serum MMP-3 is a specific inflammatory marker of the synovium, unlike C-reactive protein (CRP), which is a non-specific inflammatory marker, and is recognized to be correlated with disease activity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Objectives Our aim in this study was to investigate the relationship between serum MMP-3 and CRP which is associated with Boolean remission core measure sets in RA patients treated with adalimumab (ADA). Methods All RA patients (n=175) who underwent ADA treatment between May 2008 and September 2009 at Nagoya University Hospital and 12 other institutes (Tsurumai Biologics Communication Study Group) were enrolled in this study. The serum MMP-3 and CRP levels of all patients at baseline were 331 ng/mL and 2.9 mg/dL, respectively. All patients were administered 40 mg ADA subcutaneously every 2 weeks. Correlations between serum MMP-3, as measured by the latex turbidimetric immunoassay (LTIA), and CRP levels were analyzed by the Pearson correlation-coefficient. Receiver-operated characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed to determine the cut-off MMP-3 value for CRP levels≤1, one of Boolean core measure sets. Results We analyzed 107 patients in continuation with ADA therapy at 52 weeks and 14 patients in Boolean remission at 52 weeks. In both cases, significant correlations between serum MMP-3 and CRP levels were found at 0, 4, 12, 24, and 52 weeks. In patients continuing at 52 weeks, the best cut-off MMP-3 value for determining CRP levels≤1 at 4, 12, 24, and 52 weeks was 249 ng/mL, 135 ng/mL, 129 ng/mL, and 99 ng/mL, respectively. Its sensitivity (73%, 99%, 92%, and 88% respectively) and specificity (95%, 78%, 80%, and 75%, respectively) suggested that the cut-off MMP-3 values were preferable to determine CRP levels≤1 (Table). After the initiation of ADA therapy, serum MMP-3 and CRP levels decreased significantly. But unlike CRP levels, serum MMP-3 levels tended to decrease gradually until 52 weeks. Conclusions In ADA therapy, serum MMP-3 can be useful for estimating the CRP levels≤1. We considered that serum MMP-3 can be the index of remission in RA patients with anti-TNFα therapy. Disclosure of Interest Y. Hattori: None Declared, A. Kaneko: None Declared, T. Kojima Speakers Bureau: Abbott Japan, Chugai Pharmaceutical, Daiichi Sankyo Pharmaceutical, Eisai, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma, Pfizer Japan, Takeda, Y. Hirano: None Declared, T. Fujibayashi: None Declared, N. Takahashi: None Declared, K. Funahashi: None Declared, D. Kato: None Declared, H. Matsubara: None Declared, K. Terabe: None Declared, N. Ishiguro Speakers Bureau: Abbott Japan, Chugai Pharmaceutical, Daiichi Sankyo Pharmaceutical, Eisai, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma, Pfizer Japan, Takeda

Background It has been defined that ADA monotherapy has only limited effectiveness compared to combination therapy with Methotrexate (MTX). On the other hand, MTX cannot be administered in some patients because of tolerability concern or their complications. It is inadequate to clarify the efficacy of ADA treatment concomitant with disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) other than MTX in patients in whom MTX cannot be administered. Objectives The objective of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of ADA concomitant with DMARDs other than MTX in Japanese patients with RA. Methods All patients (n=175) who underwent ADA treatment between August 2008 and October 2009 at Tsurumai Biologics Communication Study Group’s institutes were enrolled. Patients were divided into three groups: (1) concomitant MTX (MTX group) (2) concomitant DMARDs other than MTX (DMARDs group) (3) monotherapy (mono group). Effectiveness end point was DAS28-ESR at 52 weeks. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to estimate drug survival rates during first 52 weeks. Results In total, 136 (77,4%) were in MTX group, 20 (11.4%) were in DMARDs group and 19 (10.9%) were in mono group. The mean age was 58±14 years in MTX group, 61±13 in DMARDs group, 65±9 in mono group. The mean duration of disease was 12.9±10.9 years, 13.0±11.3, 17.2±11.1, respectively. In MTX group, mean dosage of MTX was 7.0±1.9 mg/weeks. In DMARDs group, the number of DMARDs types was 7 (Fig A). DAS28-ESR scores decreased from 4.84±1.18 at baseline to 3.27±1.29 at week 52 in MTX group (p Conclusions This study clearly confirmed the superior effectiveness of combination therapy with MTX and otherDMARDs over ADA monotherapy. Disclosure of Interest K. Terabe: None Declared, T. Kojima Speakers Bureau: Abbott Japan, Chugai Pharmaceutical, Daiichi Sankyo Pharmaceutical, Eisai, Mitsubishi Tanabe Parma, Pfizer Japan, Takeda Pharmaceutical, A. Kaneko: None Declared, Y. Hirano: None Declared, T. Fujibayashi: None Declared, Y. Hattori: None Declared, N. Ishiguro Speakers Bureau: Abbott Japan, Chugai Pharmaceutical, Daiichi Sankyo Pharmaceutical, Eisai, Mitsubishi Tanabe Parma, Pfizer Japan, Takeda Pharmaceutical

Background: The goals of this study were: (1) to demonstrate the differences of metabolic changes induced by succinylcholine (SCh) administration between normal and denervated muscle by 31P-NMR spectroscopy: (2) to determine whether three kinds of drugs (vecuronium, midazolam and magnesium sulfate) could prevent these metabolic changes. Methods: Following unilateral sciatic nerve section, 20 male Wistar rats were studied at three-week intervals. After SCh 1 mg·kg-1 was administered intravenously, the changes of the inorganic phosphate/phosphocreatine (Pi/PCr) ratio, the β ATP/(PCr+Pi) ratio, and intracellular pH were measured by 31P-NMR both in normal and denervated hind limb muscles of 5 rats. The other 15 rats were allocated to the pretreatment groups by the following drugs: vecuronium 0.02 mg·kg-1, midazolam 0.1 mg·kg-1 and magnesium sulfate 60 mg·kg-1. After pretreatment 3 min before SCh administration, we measured the same parameters by 31P-NMR. Results: SCh administration did not change the Pi/PCr ratio in normal muscle, but significantly increased that in denervated muscle (P

We administered a slow-release formulation of tegafur (SF-SP) to a patient with cancer of the tongue. We would like to report the findings of this case which showed clear improvement. SF-SP was administered at 800 mg/day to a 58 year-old male for cancer of the tongue (T4N1). By the 17th day after the start of SF-SP administration, the tumor had shrunk, and by the 37th day the submandibular lymph nodes could not be located by touch. At the completion of the test on the 60th day, no cancer cells were detected. Following the completion of the test, there have been no symptoms of recurrence and a complete response was observed. At present, we are continuing administration of SF-SP and making observations.

The photoproduction of K0 and Λ on the deuteron was measured in order to investigate the γn → K 0 Λ reaction process near the threshold (Eγ = 0.8-1.1 GeV). K 0 and Λ events were clearly seen in the π + π − and the pπ − invariant mass spectra, respectively. The momentum spectra of the γd → K 0 X and the γd → ΛX reactions were derived. Additionally, the energy dependence of the integral cross section for the Λ production was also obtained. The K 0 momentum spectra were in agreement with the previous results within statistical errors. The angular distribution of the γn → K 0 Λ reaction in the center of mass system was extracted and it had the backward distribution. The total cross section of the γn → K 0 Λ reaction, which was estimated by subtracting the contribution of K + Λ process from the Λ production on the deuteron, was almost the same as that of the γp → K + Λ .

The effects of halothane and sevoflurane on cat brain energy metabolism and regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) were evaluated during normo- and hypocapnia. Brain energy status was evaluated with phosphorous nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (31P-MRS) and rCBF was measured by the hydrogen clearance method. A high concentration of halothane (3 MAC) impaired brain energy metabolism, while even a higher concentration of sevoflurane (4 MAC) had no untoward effect on brain energy metabolism. At 3 MAC of halothane, there were measurable decreases in brain phosphocreatine (69% of the control) and increases in brain inorganic phosphate (about 250% of control Pi), even though CBF was about 70% of the control value. During hypocapnia, the phosphocreatine levels began to decrease at a Paco2 of 2.7 kPa with 2 MAC of sevoflurane (90% of the control), and at a Paco2 of 4.0 kPa with 2 MAC of halothane (92% of the control). rCBF had decreased to less than 50% of the control value when Paco2 was < or = 2.7 kPa with 2 MAC of sevoflurane and < or = 4.0 kPa with 2 MAC of halothane. Abnormal brain energy metabolism was only observed when rCBF was decreased to less than half of the control (non-anesthetized and normocapnic) value. Following administration of a vasopressor, metaraminol, the abnormal brain energy metabolism induced by 2 MAC of halothane at a Paco2 of 1.33 kPa was normalized in parallel with the improved rCBF values. We conclude that hyperventilation and fluctuating blood pressure contribute to the occurrence of abnormal brain energy metabolism during halothane and sevoflurane anesthesia. This is more pronounced with halothane than with sevoflurane. The hypocapnia-induced abnormality during exposure to 2 MAC of either agent was due to decreased CBF associated with low perfusion pressure, indicating that there was no direct effect of these anesthetics on cerebral energy metabolism.

Energy metabolism of the cat brain was studied using phosphorous-31 nuclear magnetic resonance (31P-NMR) during sevoflurane/halothane anesthesia with normo- and hyperventilation. Under normocapnia, the findings associated with abnormal energy metabolism were not observed at concentration of sevoflurane/halothane up to 2 MAC. Meanwhile under hypocapnia by hyperventilation, the value of phosphocreatine began to decrease at and below 20 mmHg of PaCO2 (2 MAC sevoflurane) and 30 mmHg of PaCO2 (2 MAC halothane) respectively. These abnormal findings of brain metabolism were limited to the cases with cerebral blood flow (CBF) of less than a half of control state (nonanesthetized and normoventilated), and they were normalized with increased CBF by the vasoconstrictor, metaraminol. From the above data, it was concluded that the deteriorated energy metabolism by hyperventilation was due to decrease in CBF with hypotension and there was no direct effect on cerebral metabolism with less than 2MAC of both sevoflurane and halothane.

Through experiments and optical simulations the suppression of optical reflection at the transparent conducting oxide/Si interface of thin film Si p-i-n solar cells is shown by application of a TiO2 antireflection (AR) coating. In addition, a deterioration in the transmittance of TiO2 is shown to be due to its reduction by a H2 plasma, which in turn deteriorates the quantum efficiency (QE) at long wavelength. Such a reduction is completely prevented by a ZnO overcoat of ∼10nm. Applying the TiO2∕ZnO AR coating realizes an improvement in QE at all wavelengths with an increase of up to ∼10% at 550nm.

The roles of the hydrogenated microcrystalline silicon (μc‐Si:H) p layer in the μc‐Si:H p‐i‐n solar cell fabricated by plasma-enhanced vapor deposition are determined through evaluation of the photovoltaic characteristics of solar cells fabricated by varying the deposition time of p layer. Mechanisms of p-layer growth are analyzed with in situ Auger electron spectroscopy and ex situ Raman scattering spectroscopy. Each successive regime of film growth including an amorphous silicon layer, an incubation layer containing crystalline silicon nuclei, and a layer filled with conical crystalline silicon grains that evolves in the p-layer process leads to diverse changes in the crystalline development of the subsequent μc‐Si:H i layer and in the characteristics of the solar cell.

In situ Auger electron spectroscopy has been applied to investigate the growth process of hydrogenated microcrystalline Si (μc-Si:H)p layers on ZnO-coated glass substrates in plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition and the state of ZnO∕p interface. A high hydrogen dilution induces a ZnO∕p interface layer consisting of Si–O bonds to increase an induction period for the film growth and promotes a relaxation of strained Si–Si bond to result in a change in film growth mode from island to layer growth and a highly porous film for a nucleation of crystallites. Such changes in the initial growth influences a short circuit current of μc-Si:Hp-i-n solar cells.

Localization of cells possessing immunological cell surface markers in the human lymphoid tissues including the thymus, lymph node and spleen was analysed by the rosette forming assay on the frozen tissue sections. E receptor-bearing cells were detected by the adherence of neuraminidase-treated sheep erythrocytes (EN). ENadhered to the thymocytes in the medullary and cortical area of the thymus, the paracortex of the lymph node and the splenic periarteriolar lymphatic sheath of the spleen. Complement receptor-bearing cells were identified by the adherence of ox erythrocytes sensitized with the rabbit anti-ox erythrocyte IgM fraction and human complement (IgMEACh). IgMEACh adhered to the lymphoid follicle of the lymph node and splenic white pulp. The IgG Fc receptor-bearing cells were identified by the adherence of ox erythrocytes sensitized with the rabbit anti-ox erythrocyte IgG fraction (IgGEA). IgGEA adhered to the lymph sinus of the lymph node and splenic red pulp. From these results, it is considered that the T lymphocytes on the frozen tissue section of the human lymphoid tissues are detectable by the adherence of EN, In this rosette-forming assay on the frozen tissue sections, most of the IgMEACh adhered to the B lymphocytes and the IgGEA adhered to mainly the histiocytes or macrophages. Abbreviations used in this paper: E, sheep erythrocytes; E N, neuraminidase-treated sheep erythrocytes; IgMEACh, ox erythrocytes sensitized with rabbit anti-ox erythrocyte 19S (IgM) fraction and human complement; IgGEA, ox erythrocytes sensitized with rabbit anti-ox erythrocyte 7S (IgG) fraction; IgMEA, ox erythrocytes sensitized with rabbit anti-ox erythrocyte l9S (lgM) fraction; PBS, phosphate-buffered saline, pH 7.2; GVB++, gelatin Veronal (barbital sodium) buffer with 0.15 mM CaCl2 and 0.5 mM MgCl2; FCS, fetal calf serum.

The π + π − photoproductions on the proton and deuteron have been studied in a photon energy range of 0.8–1.1 GeV at the Laboratory of Nuclear Science, Tohoku University. Charged pions and protons were detected using Neutral Kaon Spectrometer. We obtained the cross sections for the p ( γ , p π + π − ) and d ( γ , p π + π − ) n . The quasi-free process with a neutron spectator was extracted by the neutron momentum cut of p n > 0.3 GeV / c . The cross section for the Δ + + Δ − production was deduced in the non-quasi-free process of the γ d → p n π + π − . It was 13.4 ± 0.4 μb at E γ = 0.82 GeV .

Splenic leukocytes from rabbits immunized with herpes simplex virus (HSV) incorporated significant amounts of 3H-TdR and produced interferon after in vitro incubation with HSV antigens. In contrast, splenic leukocytes from nonimmune rabbits did not incorporate 3H-TdR or produce interferon when incubated with HSV antigens. Antigen-antibody complexes consisting of HSV antigens and anti-HSV antibody also were capable of stimulating immune leukocytes to incorporate 3H-TdR and to produce interferon.

A case of tuberculosis of the tongue in a 59-year-old woman with active pulmonary tuberculosis is described. The lingual tuberculosis was considered to be a secondary infection from the pulmonary disease, but the oral lesions were, in fact, noticed prior to recognition of the pulmonary lesion. This case was marked by a multiplicity or oral lesions arising on the bilateral surfaces of the tongue. Immunologic investigation revealed that cell-mediated immune responses in the patient were within the normal range in terms of the PPD skin test, DNCB skin test, lymphocyte transformation test, and subpopulation of the peripheral blood lymphocytes. Rosette-forming assay on the frozen sections disclosed that T-lymphocytes and macrophages were predominant in the lymphoid cells infiltrating the tuberculous lesion.