Research Proposals Utilizing Mt. Fuji Weather Station

International Workshop on Research at Mt. Fuji Weather Station
March 4(Sat.) 9:30 – 16：00

Mt. Fuji International Symposium– Future of Mt. Fuji Weather Station−
March 5(Sun.) 10:00-16:00(Room 202, Gakushikaikan, Tokyo)

NPO ”Valid Utilizaition of Mt.Fuji Wether Station”
http://npo.fuji3776.net/

supportTAISEI CORPORATIONMITUBISHI ELECTRIC CORPORATIONFUJIKYUKO CORPORATION

Research Proposals Utilizing Mt. Fuji Weather Station
Mt. Fuji Weather Station has been unattended since October, 2004, after 72 years
attended operation. It is to be demolished in near future. A group of scientists hasedited this booklet, who feel that demolishing the facility is a great loss and want tomake valid use of it. Research proposals of interdisciplinary fields of science are shownas follows:

Atmospheric Chemistry
Since 1990, small scale observations have been performed on precipitation, gases
and aerosols using the facility, in collaboration with the staff of the weather station.
Continuous observations of trace gases and aerosols in the free troposphere is proved
to be performed at the station, which can be a good support to airplane observations( Bandow, H., Kato, S., Kajii, Y. Osada, K., Iwasaka, Y. and Kido, M.).
Base line observation of trace gases andaerosols over Japanese Islands is also
possible (Igarashi, Y., Nagao, I., Kajii, Y.,

Atmosphere

Kato,

S.,

Mukai,

H.,

Kobayashi,

H.

Hatakeyama, S, Komura, K and Abe, T.), as
well as getting information on long range
transportofchemicals(Igarashi,

Y.,

Takahashi, H., Mukai, H., Kaneyasu, N.,
Kobayashi,H., Miura, K., Okuda, K.,
Yoshioka, K. and Hatakeyama, S. ).

The summit is covered with fog very often,
which means the cloud can be collected onsite. Wet and dry processes in air chemistry
can be efficiently studied at the summit(Minami,Y.,

Watanabe, K.,

Okochi,H.,

Dokiya,Y.,

Suzuki, I., Osada, K.

Iwasaka, Y., and Kido, M.)

The mountain body can serve as an

Mt.Fuji is an observation tower of 4000m

observation tower of 4000m. Vertical

COS at 3776m

information on the concentrations of

COS at 3255m

trace gases and aerosols will beobtained (Igarashi, Y., Takahashi, H.,
Osada,

K.,

Kido,

M.,

Miura,

COS at 2400m

K.,

COS at 1300m

Katayama, Y., Dokiya, Y. , Minami, Y.,
Watanabe, K. and Suzuki, I.).

High Altitude Medicine
At the summit of Mt. Fuji, the airpressure is about 60 % of the surface, whichmeans that the respiratory oxygen is as low
as 12 %, causing the acute mountain sickness.
The mechanism of the disease will be studied
from the view point of blood circulation(Asano, K.), otorhinolaryngology (Ide, R. andKanzaki,S.),pulmonarycirculation(Masuyama, S. and Matsuda, A.) and preventive medicine (Horii, M.).
On the other hand, high altitude training is a promising training method in many
fields of sport, the mechanism of which will be very efficiently investigated utilizing
the facilities (Yamamoto, M. and Asano, K.).
Effect of high altitude on the metabolic pathway of fat and related compounds
will also be studied utilizing the station (Takazakura, E. and Nagasaki, S.).

Astronomy
The summit of Mt. Fuji is one of the best
sites

in

the

world

for

the

astronomical

observation because of the very low temperatureand humidity. It was proved by the successful
operation of the Mt. Fuji Submillimeter-wave
Telescope from 1998 to 2005 (Yamamoto, S.). Withthetelescope,

information

was

obtained

submillimeter-wave emission line of the atomic

carbon toward a number of nearby molecular clouds and explored formation andevolution of molecular clouds, which are birthplace of new stars.
In future, using this method, global circulation of interstellar matter in the Galaxy will
be understood (Yamamoto, S.).

Ecology
Permafrost was found at the summit

Too hot !

of Mt. Fuji in 1970s. The moss and lichensgrowing near the summit of Mt. Fuji utilize
the melt of the permafrost for their life.
Recently,thecommunities

of

these

organisms are found to be changing
because of the decrease of permafrost
presumably due to the global warming(Masuzawa, T.).
When the station can be used, more detailed observation can be performed on the
distribution of moss and lichens, which will be the actual measure of global warming (T.
Masuzawa, T., Maruta, E. and Tomita, M.).

Glaciology
Mountain snow of high altitudeconserves the history of air pollution asContinent

the concentration of chemical species

Long range transport(Suzuki,

SO2

K.).

precipitation

Collaboration

chemistry

will

with

NOx

providemore detailed figures of the origin ofchemical species (Suzuki, K., Minami, Y.,
Okochi,

H., Dokiya, Y., Watanabe, K.

and Suzuki, I.). Microscopic study on rime at the summit is also planned to elucidate
the long range transport of polluted air.

1. Atmospheric Chemistry
Bandow, H., Takenaka, N. and Sadanaga, Y. ‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥ 1
Continuous monitoring of nitrogen oxides and their related chemical species at
Mt. Fuji
Dokiya, Y., Minami, Y., Watanabe, K. and Suzuki, I. ‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥ 2
Obsevational study on chemical species in the precipitation and fog at Mt. Fuji
Hatakeyama, S. ‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥ 3
Measurements of gaseous H2O2 and organic peroxides
Igarashi, Y. ‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥ 4
Observation of SO2 and sulfate
Igarashi, Y. ‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥ 5
Observation of 7Be at the summit of Mt. Fuji
Igarashi, Y., Takahashi, H. and Mukai, H. ‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥ 6
Long-term observation of free tropospheric O3 and its vertical profile in the lower
atmosphereKajii, Y and Kato, S. ‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥ 7
Observation of atmospheric radicals such as NO, NO2, NO3 and HOx in the freetroposphere
Kaneyasu, N. ‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥ 8
Research on the physical and chemical properties of atmospheric aerosols related
to direct and indirect effect on climate change
Katayama, Y., Dokiya, Y. and Kato, H. ‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥ 9
Vertical distribution of atmospheric carbonyl sulfide in lower troposphere
Kobayashi, H. ‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥10
Optical properties of Asian dust in free troposphere
Komura, K and Abe, T. ‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥11
Measurement of short-lived cosmic-ray induced radionuclides at the summit of
Mt. FujiMinami, Y and Okochi, H. ‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥12
Observational study on transformation and deposition of chemical species
through the process of rain and fog
Miura, K. ‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥13
Measurements of aerosol size distribution at the summit and base of Mt. Fuji
Mukai, H. ‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥14
Observation of Carbon dioxide at Mt. Fuji
Nagao, I. ‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥15
Observation of oxidation products of DMS in the free troposphereOkuda, T. ‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥16
Observtion of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and trace metals inaerosol in free troposphere
Osada, K, Iwasaka, Y and Kido, M. ‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥17
Relationship between ammonia and aerosol nucleation at Mt. Fuji
Takahashi, H. ‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥18
Vertical distribution of aerosol in relation to laminar flow, turbulent flow andforced uplift by mountain
Yoshioka, K. ‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥19
The long time monitoring of the time variation of the vertical distribution ofradon concentration

2. High Altitude Medicine
Asano, K., Yamamoto, M., Mizuno, K., Nishiyasu, T. and Horii, M. ‥‥‥‥‥‥20
Human studies on consecutive monitoring of cerebral blood flow dynamics,

cardiorespiratory function at rest & exercise and sleep architecture for 4 weeks
at the top of Mt. Fuji
Horii, M. ‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥21
Acetazolamide in prevention of acute mountain sickness
Ide, R. ‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥22
Effect of inner ear function under hypobaric hypoxia
Masuyama, S. and Masuda, A. ‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥23
Human study on dynamic changes of pulmonary circulation during short stay on
the summit of Mt. Fuji
Human study on dynamic change of blood coagulation and fibrinolysis system
during short stay on the summit of Mt. Fuji
Takazakura, E. and Nagasaki, S. ‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥24
Is staying at high altitude effective for improvement of metabolic syndrome?
Yamamoto, M. and Asano, K. ‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥25
Development of high altitude acclimatization training by using Mt. Fuji’senvironment

3. Astronomy
Yamamoto, S ‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥26
Astronomical observation of terahertz region with a transportable telescope

4. Ecology
Masuzawa, T., Maruta, E. and Tomita, M. ‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥27
Research on permafrost of Mt. Fuji and long term changes in moss and lichen
community

5. Glaciology
Suzuki, K. ‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥‥28
Research on the chemical species in mountain snow as indexes of atmosphericenvironment

FieldMain researcher(affiliation)(address; e-mail)Col1aborators(affiliation, address,e-mail)Theme
Annual Expense*
Outline(Aim,

methods

andexpected outcome of theresearch)

Atmospheric Chemistry
Hiroshi Bandow
Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka Prefecture University,
1-1 Gakuen-cho, Nakaku, Sakai, Osaka 599-8531, Japan:
bandow@chem.osakafu-u.ac.jp
Norimichi Takenaka(Osaka Pref. Univ.) takenaka@chem.osakafu-u.ac.jp
Yasuhiro Sadanaga(Osaka Pref. Univ.) sadanaga@chem.osakafu-u.ac.jp
Continuous monitoring of nitrogen oxides and their related chemical
species at Mt. Fuji
¥ 2,000,000
Nitrogen oxides are the key chemical species which control the qualityof the atmosphere in terms of ambient atmospheric acidity and oxidizing
capacity. Therefore, the monitoring of their concentrations and its trend in
the global troposphere as well as understanding of their emission strength
are of crucial importance. Focusing on the impact of economic burst of
East Asian countries, especially China, to the global atmosphere, we havealready started the continuous monitoring of total reactive nitrogens(NOy)and gaseous nitric acid at the remote site of Okinawa island in East China
Sea, where the outflow from Chinese continent prevails by the Jet-stream in
winter. NOy concentration at the site sometimes exceeds over 10 ppbv
and that of nitric acid is comparable to that in the urban area even in such
remote site. Based on the knowledge of atmospheric chemistry inaddition to the data observed at the site so far, the monitoring of thesechemical entities are of urgent concern, especially at the site where one canwatch the representative quality of the free tropospheric air in thenorthern-hemispheric mid-latitude zone. The top of Mt. Fuji is such site
almost like a fire-lookout for the global environmental change where one
can find an emergency at first.
Methods: Commercially available and modified NOx analyzers will be
employed for continuous monitoring of NOx, total NOy, gaseous nitricacid, and aerosol nitrates, separately. Periodically, intensive observation
campaign will be planed for measuring some NOy entities selectively, suchas nitrous acid and organic nitrates including PANs. For detecting the
global change of atmospheric chemistry, 10- to 15-year monitoring will beneeded. For understanding the chemical scheme of the global troposphererelated to NOy species, 2- to 3-year-round periodic observation campaigns
for clarifying the partioning among the chemicals in the nitrogen oxides
family should be conducted with the collaboration of other groups.
Outcomes expected: The symptom of a global change intropospheric chemistry will be detected on the very early stage
through the continuous monitoring of NOx, NOy, and nitric acid.
Fundamental understanding on chemical and photochemicalsystem in the global troposphere will also be obtained through theobservation of the short-term temporal change of theabove-mentioned species under various conditions.

* not including the maintenance cost of the station
1

FieldMain researcher(affiliation)(address; e-mail)Col1aborators(affiliation,
address, e-mail)
Theme
Annual Expense*
Outline(Aim,

methods

andexpected outcome of
the research)

Atmospheric Chemistry
Yukiko Dokiya
Edogawa University, 474 Komaki, Nagareyama, 270-0198,
Japan: dokiya@edogawa-u.ac.jp
Yukiya Minami(Ishikawa Pref. Univ.) yumin@ishikawa-pu.ac.jp
Koichi Watanabe(Toyama Pref. Univ.) nabe@pu-toyama.ac.jp
Issei Suzuki (Tokyo Univ. Agr.&Tech) y5953009@gc.tuat.ac.jp
Observational study on chemical species in the precipitation and
fog at Mt. Fuji
¥ 2,000,000
Precipitation and fog samples have been occasionallycollected at the summit and several sites of different heights on
the slope from 1990. Chemical analyses of them prevailed that theconcentrations of chemical species are generally low at thesummit compared with lower elevation, having typical seasonalvariations. However, no continuous observation could be
performed yet. In this research a year round precipitation
samples will be collected at the summit as well as fog samples insummer campaigns, at several elevation sites.
Methods: Continuous precipitation samples (plastic samplers,
weekly)and fog samples(in summer campaign, a passive sampler)
will be collected. Determination of the concentrations of chemical
species will be done by ion-chromatography. H2O2 will also be
analyzed using the samples preserved. New sampling andanalytical systems will be developed.
Outcomes expected: Seasonal trends of chemical species in the
precipitation at the summit of Mt. Fuji will be obtained. Verticaldifferences in the concentration of chemical species in the fog andprecipitation will be shown. Using the results, compared withthose of aerosols and trace gases, information on long-range
transport of pollutants over the Asian Continent, on air chemistry
in the free troposphere and etc. will be provided, which will beapplied to the elimination of the damage of acid rain in ecosystem.

2

FieldMain researcher(affiliation)(address; e-mail)Col1aborators(affiliation,
address, e-mail)
Theme
Expense*Outline(Aim,
methods
and outcome of
the research)

Atmospheric Chemistry
Shiro Hatakeyama (Atmos. Enviorn. Div., NIES)
E-mail: hatashir@nies.go.jp Fax: 029-850-2579

Measurements of gaseous H2O2 and organic peroxides
2,000,000 Yen/year
Photochemical ozone and air pollutants transported from big cities arethought to be one of causes for the serious forest decline found in themountainous area surrounding those big cities. In addition ozone reacts withnatural hydrocarbons emitted from forest trees to form peroxidic compounds,
which can damage plants as well. In the East Asia, on the other hand, NOxemission goes up quickly due to the rapid economic growth of China andother developing countries. It brings about the increase of back groundozone as well as back ground peroxides. It is very important to analyze theoxidation processes in the atmosphere.
In the work proposed here, we are going to measure the concentrations ofperoxides in the atmosphere transported from the East Asian region in order to
get information on the inter-conversions of peroxyl radicals such as OH，
HO2，and CH3OO taking place in that atmosphere.
◆Methods of measurements
Place: Top of Mt. Fuji and in the forests surrounding Mt. Fuji. By thecomparison the effects of urban plumes and the back ground atmospherecan be analyzed.
Methods: Sampling with mist chambers and subsequent analyses by use of
an HPLC will be used. A fluorescence detector utilizing dimerization of
p-hydroxyphenyl acetic acid and full-polymer tubing and column are to be
used.
Period: Every summer.
◆Expected results
Photochemical processes in the back ground air transported from the East
Asia can be analyzed. The contribution of the peroxides formed by thereactions of ozone with olefinic hydrocarbons can be studied, which enables
to evaluate the contribution of such peroxides to the forest decline in themountainous area.

3

FieldMain researcher(affiliation)(address; e-mail)
Theme
AnnualExpense*Outline(Aim, methods
andexpectedoutcome of theresearch)

Atmospheric Chemistry

Yasuhito Igarashi, (Geochemical
Meteorological Research Institute)

Research

Department,

Observation of SO2 and sulfate¥ 5,000,000◆

Observation Purpose
It is noticed that SO2 is a source substance for acid rain, since it is discharged
into the atmosphere by industrial activity in large quantities. In addition, SO2 isoxidized in the atmosphere becoming sulfuric acid and works as a cloud nuclei
of sulfate aerosol. Because sulfate aerosol scatters sun light which affects on
climate. SO2 exists in the unpolluted natural environment; a considerable
quantity of SO2 is emitted from volcanoes and it is generated also from gaseous
reduced sulfur species such as DMS (dimethyl sulfide) emitted from the ocean,etc. Therefore, observation of SO2 and sulfate aerosol in the free troposphere isimportant from the viewpoint of climate change and acidification issues.
Long-term monitoring and process study are indispensable. By intensive
campaign observation, we would like to grasp air mass and/or plume mixing
and its relation to chemical reactions, etc.
◆ Observation Method
An observation spot: at the summit for long-term monitoring. If possible toprepare with the plural same instrumental setup, we would like to observe invertical distribution of SO2 at 7.8 point of Mt. Fuji and Tarohbo (1300m asl)
Observation instrument:a)
UV fluorescence method is employed. Although the sensitivity of acommercial UV fluorescence SO2 monitor is not sufficient to measure
the BG level precisely, it is suitable for long-term observation due toits capability of automatic observation.
b)
Aerosol sulfate can be observed with a dry-process sulfate monitor
that is a combination of a high temperature converter of sulfate to SO2
and a UV fluorescence detector.
Long-term monitoring should be continued for at least 20 years or so. During
intensive campaign observation the method having high time resolution withother chemical species is a requisite.
◆ Prospective Results
There are little continuous SO2 observations in the free troposphere especiallyin the far East region. and long-term, SO2 time series for the validation ofchemical transport model are also little. It is worth offering long-termmonitoring data to contribute for the improvement of a chemical transportmodel. Furthermore, by observing both of SO2 and sulfate aerosol duringlong-range transport events from a continent as well as volcanoes such as
Miyake-jima Island, we can know about the relation between the transportationand the oxidation processes. By comparing the data with ozone, hydrogen
peroxide and other oxidants, we can obtain further knowledge about thechemical transformation.

4

FieldMain researcher(affiliation)(address; e-mail)Col1aborators(affiliation,
address, e-mail)
Theme
Annual Expense*
Outline(Aim, methods andexpected outcome of
the research)

Atmospheric Chemistry

Yasuhito Igarashi, (Geochemical
Meteorological Research Institute)

Research

Department,

E-mail：yigarash@mri-jma.go.jp Fax：+81-29-853-8728

Observation of 7Be at the summit of Mt. Fuji
¥ 5,000,000◆ Observation Targets (Research object)
Cosmogenic radioculide; ７Be◆ Observation Purpose
Beryllium-7 is produced by nuclear spallation reactions between highenergy cosmic-rays and atmospheric nuclei. It has been used for various
purposes in the field of geoscience. Due to its electric charge, 7Be
probably attaches to the ambient aerosol soon after its production, thus it
could be used as tracer for stratospheric air mass. Its observation coupledwith O3, it could help to know about the source of O3. It has been foundthat enhanced 7Be and O3 concentrations along with low humidity will
occur when the dry intrusion of upper air mass is observed. Thus inorder to study about the stratosphere/troposphere air mass exchange andits impact on the atmospheric chemistry, we propose to observe 7Be on
site.
◆ Observation Method
An observation spot: At the summit long-term monitoring should be
done. If possible to prepare with the plural same instrumental setup, we
would like to observe in vertical distribution of 7Be at 7.8 point of Mt.
Fuji and Tarohbo (1300m asl)
High volume sampling is employed and 7Be is collected onto quartz
fiber filters. The filter taken back to the laboratory and is subjected to
γ-ray measurement using a Ge semiconductor detector coupled to a 4096
channel multi-channel analyzer. The 478 keV photo-peak was used todetermine 7Be. Although at present only manual sampling allowing
coarse time resolution of one day ors is possible, the automatic sampler
capable of higher time resolution should be installed.
◆ Prospective Results
Concerning the evaluation of S/T exchange, the recent modern
chemical transport model calculation has been attempted, however theevaluation is still in the controversy. Observation of 7Be could contributeto such discussion by offering the useful data. Information on not only
O3 but also other stratospheric oirigin trace substances could be obtainedby such cosmogenic nuclides at the summit of Mt. Fuji.

5

FieldMain researcher(affiliation)(address; e-mail)Col1aborators(affiliation, address,e-mail)Theme
Annual Expense*
Outline(Aim, methods andexpected outcomeof the research)

Atmospheric Chemistry

Yasuhito Igarashi, (Geochemical
Meteorological Research Institute)
E-mail：yigarash@mri-jma.go.jp

Research

Department,

Fax：+81-29-853-8728

Hiroshi Takahashi (Environment and Applied Meteorology
Research Department, Meteorological Research Institute), Hitoshi
Mukai (Center for Global Environmental Research, National
Institute for Environmental Studies)Long-term observation of free tropospheric O3 and its verticalprofile in the lower atmosphere¥ 5,000,000◆ Observation target (Research object)
Ozone (O3)
◆ Observation Purpose
It is current concern that emissions of NOx, CO and NMHC will increase over
the Asian continent due to increasing number of a car in China, though the SO2
emission to the atmosphere may stay at the current level. Increase of NOx will
result in the 'photochemical smog' in wider area, and also could lead to increase amass of ozone production. Hence, it is necessary to monitor O3 for a long-term in
the free troposphere over Japan located downstream of the Asian continent. In
addition, in order to know about the temporal change in atmospheric oxidation
capability attributable to the above-mentioned O3 concentration change,
observation of other chemical species along with O3 in the troposphere seems
also important. We need to evaluate natural ozone which is originally from thestratosphere and anthropogenic pollution ozone which basically comes from theboundary layer, considering the possible influence of global warming onto theglobal atmospheric circulation and related dynamics.
There are two major research topics. One is the observation of the long-termchange in 10 to 20 years with very much precise instrument, and another is theprocess research for the transport and chemical reactions involved.
◆ Observation Methods
An observation spot: At a mountain summit for long-term monitoring. If
possible, observation of vertical profile of O3 at 7.8 point and Taro-bo with thesame instrumental sets should be carried out.
Observation instrument: The instrument using UV absorption to aim at acompletely automatic measurement and achieving the adequate accuracy in termsof traceability
Observation term: Long-term observation for more than 20 years and intensive
observation along with other chemical species are desirable◆ Prospective results
O3 in the free troposphere is basic parameter, since the long-term O3
observation data can contribute to validate and improve a chemical transportmodel. By comparing provided data from other observatories at high mountains
such as Mauna Loa, Hawaii, Jungfraujoch, Switzerland, Mt. Waliguan, China,etc., we can also picture wider aerial distribution of O3 at mid altitude level in the
troposphere, being with extrapolation by a numerical model. Moreover, thisobservation will help us to know about climate change affected by the change ofO3 (does to response relationship) as well as source intensity change. Observationof peroxides along with O3 will help our further understanding on chemical
processes related to oxidation capability of the atmosphere.
6FieldMain researcher(affiliation)(address; e-mail)Col1aborators(affiliation,
address, e-mail)
Theme
Expense*Outline(Aim,
methods
and outcome of
the research)

Atmospheric chemistry
Yoshizumi Kajii
Tokyo Metropolitan University
Hachioji, Tokyo: kajii@atmchem.apchem.metro-u.ac.jp
Shungo Kato
Tokyo Metropolitan University
Hachioji, Tokyo: shungo@atmchem.apchem.metro-u.ac.jp
Observation of atmospheric radicals such as NO, NO2, NO3 andHOx in the free troposphere
2 millions of Japanese yen per year
The main aim of the research is the observation of atmospheric
radicals in the free troposphere. The only expeditions which havebeen done before were always using aircraft observations. It costs
a lot and we have a lot of limitation for such campaigns. However,observatory in Mt. Fuji could provide us quite frequently theopportunities of sampling of the free tropospheric air.
The
mountain top is free from local air pollution hence we could expect
considerable amount of NO3 radicals in night time. Due to highreactivity NO3 radicals are not well observed under the atmosphereup to recently.
At the first stage of this research, we would like to startmeasurement of NOx and VOCs in order to judge the NO3
concentration at night. The source of NO3 radicals are the reactionof NO2 and O3 and decomposition of N2O5. The loss of NO3 is quite
complex. Major loss might be reactions with VOCs. Therefore,
we measure key species playing as possible source and sinks.
Next step is the measurements of radical molecules using laser
spectroscopic techniques. Not only NO3 family but also HOx (OHand HO2 radicals) might be measuring targets. We would like totest our knowledge about atmospheric chemistry in the freetroposphere and evaluate the roles of radicals for loss processes ofimportant trace species like HCFCs. The investigation of the
dynamical behavior of NOx family is also essential for the
clarification of acidification of the atmosphere.

7

FieldMain researcher(affiliation)(address; e-mail)Col1aborators(affiliation,
address, e-mail)
Theme
Expense*Outline(Aim,
methods
andexpectedoutcome of theresearch)

Atmospheric Science
Naoki Kaneyasu
National Institute for Advanced Industrial Science and Technology
16-1 Onogawa, Tsukuba 305-8569, Japan; e-mail: kane.n@aist.go.jp

Research on the physical and chemical properties of atmosphericaerosols related to direct and indirect effect on climate change
2,000,000 yen / yr

Background of the research
Little observational data have been reported for the opticalproperties of aerosols in the free troposphere. Concentrations of
optically-active species in the free troposphere, such as sulfate,black carbon, particulate organics, and soil dust are also sparsely
measured.
The mechanism and the pathways of long-range
transports of air pollutants in East Asian region have mostly beenstudied for those in the planetary boundary layer.
To evaluate direct effect of anthropogenic aerosols on climate, inparticular in the Asia-Pacific region where emissions of air
pollutants are expected to increase, in-situ measurements of optical,
microphysical, and chemical properties are indispensable foraerosols not only in the planetary boundary layer but in the freetroposphere. The summit of Mt. Fuji is also advantageous instudying the indirect effect (via cloud droplets) of aerosols on
climate since it is situated at the downwind area of Asian continent
where emission of cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) is expected toincrease.

MethodInstrumentation: Continuous measurements of aerosol opticalproperties with Integrating Nephelometer and Absorption
Photometer. Monitoring of concentrations for some components
such as black carbon and sulfate with Aethalometer (or multi-angle
absorption photometer) and sulfate monitor, respectively.
Continuous operation of CCN counter. Semi-continuous aerosol
collection with filter samplers.
Period: long enough to detect year-to-year trend.

Expected outcome
The long-term data set obtained in this study will be used toevaluate the performance of global chemical transport models, andthus to contribute to improve the prediction of aerosol radiative
forcing in global scale. The optical parameters of aerosols in thefree troposphere are essential in improving the “atmosphericcorrection” used in satellite remote sensing data processing.
Concurrent measurements of aerosol number concentration,
composition, and CCN provide basic data to detect and evaluate theindirect climatic effect of aerosol in this region, which leads toimprove the climate change prediction.
8

FieldMain researcher(affiliation)(address; e-mail)Col1aborators(affiliation,
address, e-mail)
Theme
Annual Expense*
Outline(Aim,

methods

andexpected outcome of
the research)

Atmospheric Chemistry
Yoko Katayama
Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology
3-5-8 Saiwaicho, Fuchu, 183-8509, Japankatayama@cc.tuat.ac.jp
Yukiko Dokiya(Edogawa University) dokiya@edogawa-u.ac.jp
Hiromi Kato (Tokyo Univ. Agr.&Tech) katee@cc.tuat.ac.jp
Vertical distribution of atmospheric carbonyl sulfide in lower
troposphere¥ 1,500,000
Stratospheric sulfate aerosols are known to have an
important role in global warming as a cooling agent. COS is one ofthe precursor of stratospheric sulfate aerosols, recent increase of
COS is focused in relation to the anthropogenic activities. The
measurement of COS has mainly been performed by the airplane
sampling. And information on the concentration of COS has been
limited to be that of upper troposphere. However, it is reported,
recently that natural ecosystem serves as sources and sinks of
COS, thus the importance of continuous measurement of COS isemphasized.
Methods: Air samples will be collected simultaneously usingaluminum bags at more than 4 points (e.g. 3776m, 3255m, 2400,
1300m), every 4 hours, continuously (from a few days to weeks).
The sample air will be condensed using liquid oxygen followed by
the determination of the concentrations of COS by FPD-GC.
Outcomes expected: Continuous vertical profile of COS at thelower troposphere, including free troposphere will be obtained,
which cannot be obtained in ordinary airplane samplings. The
data will serve as a key factor in elucidating the mechanism ofglobal warming.

9

FieldMain researcher(affiliation)(address; e-mail)Col1aborators(affiliation,
address, e-mail)
Theme
Expense*Outline(Aim, methods andexpected outcome of
the research)

Atmospheric science
Hiroshi Kobayashi, University of Yamanashi, 4-3-11 Takeda, Kofu,
400-8511, Japan; kobachu@yamanashi.ac.jp

Optical properties of Asian dust in free troposphere¥500,000
Radiative forcing of Asian dust, or KOSA in Japanese, can beeither positive or negative. The evaluation of the radiative effect ofAsian dust on climate on regional and global scales involves large
uncertainties. The accurate estimation of the radiative forcing
requires knowledge of their optical properties like single scattering
albedo and phase function. In particular, the evaluation of the
optical properties of Asian dust in free troposphere is importantbecause of high possibilty of long-range transportation of the dust in
free troposphere.
Methods: An automatic filter sampler controlled with an opticalparticle counter, which is developed, will be used at the summit. The
size distributions are measured with an Coulter Counter. The
refractive index is estimated from the measured size distribution
and the absorption coefficient measured with a spectrophotometeron the basis of Mie theory.
Outcomes expected: The optical properties of Asian dust in freetroposphere will be obtained. Therefore it would enable to estimate
the effect on climate precisely and to improve the accuracy ofsatellite and other remote sensing for Asian dust.

10FieldMain researcher(affiliation)(address; e-mail)Col1aborators(affiliation, address,e-mail)Theme

Airborne radioactivity
Kazuhisa KOMURA
Low Level Radioactivity Laboratory, K-INET, Kanazawa University
Komura@yu.incl.ne.jp
Takuya ABE (D3)
Low Level Radioactivity Laboratory, K-INET, Kanazawa University
abetaku@llrl.ku-unet.ocn.ne.jp
Measurement of short-lived cosmic-ray induced radionuclides at thesummit of Mt. Fuji
Expense*200 k yen
Outline1. Many kinds of short- and long-lived radionuclides (CP nuclide)(Aim,methods
are produced at high altitude due to nuclear reactions between
and outcome ofcosmic-rays and air components.
the research)
2. Production rate of the CP-nuclide is expected to be 1~2 orders ofmagnitude higher at the summit of Mt. Fuji than at sea level. No
measurement has been made to measure production rate at highaltitude because activity levels of these nuclides are extremely
low and difficult to detect by ordinary low background Ge
detector.
3. By the use of extremely low-background Ge detector at Ogoya
Underground Laboratory, we succeeded to detect short-lived
CP-nuclide such as 28Mg (half-life = 20.9 h), 24Na (14.96 h), 18F(110 m), 39Cl (56 m) , 38Cl (37 m). in 50L of rain water.
4. In order to analyze rain-data it is very important to know
production rate at the altitude of cloud formation, However there
is no measurements.
5. In this work, we will try to detect 28Mg and 24Na in the air byusing extremely high volume air sampler.
6. Sampling collection: 13,000 m3 (sampler 2m3/min x 1 day 3 sets)
7. Bring back air-filter to LLRL by train and measure at Ogoya
Underground Laboratory.
8. Simulation experiments at KEK.
9. Data analyses.

11FieldMain researcher(affiliation)(address; e-mail)Col1aborators(affiliation,
address, e-mail)
Theme
Expense*Outline(Aim, methods andexpected outcome of
the research)

Atmospheric chemistry
Yukiya Minami
Ishikawa Prefectural University
1-308 Suematsu, Nonoichi, 921-8836, Japanyumin@ishikawa-pu.ac.jp
Hiroshi Okochi
Tokyo Metropolitan University
hokouchi@cc.tmit.ac.jp
Observational study on transformation and deposition of chemical
species through the processes of rain and fog¥ 3,000,000Atmospheric chemical species usually experience a dissolution
into, and a drought escape from cloud/fog particles for several times
until the eventual deposition. Liquid phase of the hydrometeor gives
an occasion of faster chemical reaction. Cap cloud, which is often
observed at the summit of Mt. Fuji, is one of the situations of such
wet processes. And because Mt. Fuji is an isolated high mountain,
air mass would be clearly traced. Also, the mountain provides alarge difference in elevation between the observational sites within
a horizontally short distance.
Methods: Cloud (fog) water will be collected near the cloud base andat the summit. Precipitation will be also collected at several
elevations. Aerosols will be sampled just below the cloud base.
Major inorganic solutes will be measured, and their precursor inaerosols will be analyzed. Oxidants such as H2O2 will be alsomeasured, if possible.
Outcomes expected: Role of clouds in a transformation of chemical
species as a medium to accelerate the reaction will be clarified.
Knowledge on promotion of the deposition of the species byseeder-feeder mechanism and large deposition rate of them at highelevation will be obtained, which have been derived only from theobservation at the mountainous sites at around 1,000m elevation.

12

FieldMain researcher(affiliation)(address; e-mail)Collaborators(affiliation,
address, e-mail)
Theme
Expense*Outline(Aim, methods andexpected outcome of
the research)

Atmospheric Physics
Kazuhiko Miura
Tokyo University of Science, 1-3 Kagurazaka, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
162-8601, Japan : miura@rs.kagu.tus.ac.jp

Measurements of aerosol size distribution at the summit and thebase of Mt. Fuji
¥ 2,000,000
In order to evaluate the effect of atmospheric aerosols on climatechange it is necessary to measure the long-term variation of
background level at the fixed point. As the summit of Mt. Fuji isusually positioned in the free troposphere, we can measure thevariation of aerosol in the free troposphere. Sulfate and secondaryorganic aerosol play an important role as cloud condensation nuclei
and they are generated by gas to particle conversion so it is very
interesting to study the new particle production and particle
growing process. We investigate the physical process of aerosols in
the free troposphere by measuring the size distribution from 4.4 nm
to 5000 nm in diameter.
Methods: The size distribution from 4.4 nm to 5000 nm indiameter will be measured with a scanning mobility particle sizer(TSI 3936N25) and two optical particle counters (RION KC18,
KC01D), at three fixed stations (the summit, mountainside (7 go 8
syaku shelter), base (Taro-bo shelter) ). Moving observation will be
performed with a portable optical particle counter (RION KR12) anda portable condensation particle counter (TSI 3007) between the
fixed stations in summer campaigns.
Outcomes expected: The size distribution from 4.4 nm to 5000 nm indiameter will give us the information about the process of newparticle production and particle growing in the free troposphere.
We can also evaluate the effect of anthropogenic aerosols in Asia on
background level by investigating the vertical profile and transport
process.

13

FieldMain researcher(affiliation)(address; e-mail)Col1aborators(affiliation,
address, e-mail)
Theme
Annual Expense*
Outline(Aim,

methods

andexpected outcome of
the research)

Environmental Chemistry
Hitoshi Mukai
National Institute for Environmental Studies, 16-2 Onogawa,
Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8506 Japan; lnmukaih@nies.go.jp
Marcel van der Schoot (CSIRO, CMAR, Aspendale,
Marcel.VanDerSchoot@csiro.au)
Observation of Carbon dioxide at Mt. Fuji
¥ 1,500,000
Latitudinal band from 30N to 40N is a highly populated region
which can potentially produce a large amount of CO2. In order tomonitor latitudinal average of CO2 concentration at this latitude,
a special monitoring site is needed, because local emission sources
can easily affect the concentration at the site. Mt. Fuji isconsidered to be one of the best sites for monitoring of backgroundair.
Methods: Continuous CO2 analyzer will be installed with somestandard cylinders at the observatory. To minimize consumptionof the standard gases, specially designed analyzer should be used.
Outcomes expected: Very smooth seasonal and long-term trend
data will be obtained with the information on vertical difference
in CO2 concentration, by comparing the data from other stationsin Japan.
China has one station at Mt. Waliguan in Qing-Hai province.
The data from Mt. Fuji can be compared to the data from the
Chinese site, showing the influence of emissions from the Asian
region.

14

FieldMain researcher(affiliation)(address; e-mail)Col1aborators(affiliation,
address, e-mail)
Theme
Expense*OutlineAtmospheric Chemistry
Ippei Nagao
Nagoya University, Furocho, Chikusaku, Nagoya, 464-8601, Japan:i.nagao@nagoya-u.jp

Observation of oxidation products of DMS in the free troposphere¥ 1,000,000
DMS is thought to be one of important precursors of sulfate aerosols, and(Aim, methods and new particle formation from sulfuric acids probably takes place in the free
expected outcome of troposphere where preexisting particles are less abundant than in the boundary
the research)layer. However, under the condition of low temperature, productions ofdimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and dimethyl sulfone (DMSO2) from DMS
oxidation compete the production of sulfuric acids, resulting in reducing acontribution of DMS to a new particle formation. Therefore following two
terms should be studied: (1) to understand a relative abundance of DMSO andDMSO2 to MSA and H2SO4 in the free troposphere, (2) (if possible) to relatethese fractions to the meteorological and photochemical conditions.
Methods: Continuous sampling of aerosols will be carried out at two sites(the summit of Mt. Fuji and around 5-Goume). Sampling period should beplaned under consideration of meteorological conditions. Then chemicalcompositions of aerosols are analyzed to quantify the amounts of MSA,
SO42-, DMSO and DMSO2. Meteorological conditions are also recorded.
Outcomes expected: Although several studies on the relative abundance ofDMSO and MSA are carried out in the marine boundary layer, thesestudies in the free troposphere are limited. Therefore this study will help
us to study a contribution of DMS to a new particle formation and toquantify the branching ratio of these pathways in the free troposphere
where new particle formation will take place.

15

FieldMain researcher(affiliation)(address; e-mail)Col1aborators(affiliation,
address, e-mail)
Theme
Expense*Outline(Aim, methods andexpected outcome of
the research)

Atmospheric Chemistry
Tomoaki OKUDA
Keio University, 3-14-1 Hiyoshi, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama 223-8522,
Japan: okuda@applc.keio.ac.jp

Observation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and trace
metals in aerosol in free troposphere1,000,000 JPY
Backgrounds: Recent studies have been concerned with sources
and behaviors of atmospheric aerosols, because they can be relatedwith serious health hazards such as increasing risks of respiratory
diseases. In the Chinese urban area, a large amount of aerosol isemitted from anthropogenic sources and natural sources. They willbe transported to around Japan via troposphere; however, no
continuous observation of particulate pollutants (such as polycyclicaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and trace metals) was not achieved
yet.
Methods: Daily concentrations of trace metals in the aerosol will bemeasured at the summit of Mt. Fuji. Automatic continuous air
sampler will be installed at the sampling site. 20 kinds of PAHs and
16 kinds of metals in every aerosol sample were analyzed by using
HPLC/fluorescence detection for PAHs and inductively coupledplasma mass spectrometry equipped with a laser ablation sample
introduction system (LA/ICP-MS) for metals.
Outcomes expected: This is the first trial in the world to obtain
continuous daily concentrations of trace metals in the aerosol at freetroposphere. Long range transport processes and chemical reaction
during the transport will be solved by comparing the data of PAHs
and metals at the summit of Mt.Fuji with those at a source region(for example, ground observation data at Beijing, China).

16

FieldMain researcher(affiliation)(address; e-mail)Col1aborators(affiliation, address,e-mail)Atmospheric Chemistry
Kazuo OSADA
Graduate School of Environmental Sciences, Nagoya University,
Nagoya, 464-8601, kosada@nagoya-u.jp
Yasunobu IWASAKA (Kanazawa University)
kosa@t.kanazawa-u.ac.jp
Mizuka KIDO (Toyama prefectural Environmental Science ResearchCenter, Toyama) mizuka.kido@eco.pref.toyama.jp
Theme
Relationship between ammonia and aerosol nucleation at Mt. Fuji
Annual Expense*¥ 500,000
OutlineAmmonia is the only alkaline gas in the atmosphere and will
(Aim, methods and neutralize acidic aerosol particles. One theory of ternary nucleation
expected outcome of involve ammonia, water vapor and sulfuric acid and suggests thatthe research)
thermodynamically stable clusters can form under typical atmosphericconcentration levels of the precursor gases. However, free troposphericmeasurements of ammonia and related parameters are very sparse. To
study nucleation and transformation of aerosols, we propose continuous
ammonia measurements.
We are trying to develop sensitive and automated system of ammonia
measurements on the remote site such as Mt. Fuji. The system needs AC
power and daily maintenance to perform the measurements, andoccupies about 1x2 m area and 1.5 m height for the whole equipment.
We will also measure and collect size-segregated aerosol particles
during some intensive observation periods. Measurements andcollection of aerosols could be collaborated with other groups.
These data may provide an insight into nucleation and transformationof aerosols in free troposphere.

17FieldMain researcher(affiliation)(address; e-mail)Col1aborators(affiliation)(address; e-mail)
Theme
Expense*Outline(Aim,
methods
and outcome of
the research)

Atmospheric Chemistry
Hiroshi Takahashi
Meteorological Research305-0052, Japanhtakahas@mri-jma.go.jp

Institute,

1-1,

Nagamine,

Tsukuba,

Vertical distribution of aerosol in relation to laminar flow, turbulent
flow and forced uplift by mountains¥ 1,000,000
When Mt. Fuji Weather Station is regarded as an observation
platform of upper atmosphere of Japan, signals expected are thoseof the concentrations of various chemical species transported long
distant such as from the Asian Continent. Then, the influence fromthe boundary layer near by should be eliminated as well as possible.
The summit of Mt. Fuji is thought to be in free troposphere most of
the time, however, detailed separation of the individual data has notbeen performed yet, such that the which aliquot is from theboundary layer. This research aims the separation and eliminationof those noises from the observation of aerosol in free troposphere.
Methods
Particle counters will be operated continuously at 3776m,
3255m, 2400m and 1300m for several years. Observation campaigns
will also be planned to see the seasonal difference and atmosphericconditions such as laminar flow and turbulent flow.
Outcome expected
The detailed separation methods will be obtained of noises
from the boundary layer in three ways: (1) ordinary separation (2)transportation and mixing process accompanied with disturbance(3) diurnal change in non-disturbance intervals. The results willserve as the theoretical background of other observation in freetroposphere, which will also contribute to the forecasting the futureatmospheric environment.

18

FieldMain researcher(affiliation)(address; e-mail)Col1aborators(affiliation,
address, e-mail)
Theme
Expense*Outline(Aim, methods andexpected outcome of
the research)

Atmospheric Chemistry
Katsuhiro Yoshioka
Shimane Prefectural Institute of Environmental Science, 582-1,
Nishihamasada,Matsue,690-0122,
Japan:
yoshioka-katsuhiro@pref.shimane.lg.jp

The long time monitoring of the time variation of the vertical
distribution of radon concentration
First year: ¥4,000,000 next: ¥500,000/year
The atmospheric distribution of 222Rn concentration has been
influenced by the geographical distribution of 226Ra concentration in the crust.
The continuous observation of 222Rn concentration has not almost been
performed in the upper altitude of the atmospheric boundary layer and/or thefree troposphere, but in the lower, 222Rn concentrations have been measured
frequently in Japan. The vertical distribution of 222Rn concentration from thesurface layer to the free troposphere has been very important data due toestimate the vertical mixing process of the air mass. On the remote ocean, theatmospheric 222Rn concentration depends on the mixing ratio of thecontinental air mass and the maritime and/or the spatial scale of the diffusion
and mixing. Accordingly, the survey 222Rn concentrations are very importantdata due to the verification of the mixing process in the long rang transport.
Method: In this observation, 222Rn concentration is measured by thecontinuous measurement equipment. This equipment has given good results at
various places in many studies as yet. In this study, measurement points arenecessary more than three altitudes from the surface layer to the summit.
Outcomes expected: The vertical distribution of the atmospheric 222Rn
concentration has been expected with the diurnal variation by the verticalmixing of the air mass due to the thermal convection. The time variation of
the vertical mixing process could be verified due to the time variation of thevertical distribution of 222Rn concentration. In the free troposphere, 222Rn due
to the long range transport from the Asian continent would be detected easily
for the lower level of background 222Rn concentration.

19

FieldMain researcher(affiliation)(address; e-mail)Col1aborators(affiliation,
address, e-mail)
Theme

Expense*Outline(Aim,
methods
and outcome of
the research)High Altitude Medicine
Katsumi Asano (Inst. of Health & Sport Sciences, Univ. of Tsukuba)
E-mail hypk.asano@kca.biglobe.ne.jp
Tel&Fax: 029-851-0015
Masayoshi Yamamoto (National Inst, of Fitness and Sports)
Kou Mizuno (Tohoku Fukushi Univ.)
Takeshi Nishiyasu (Univ. of Tsukuba)
Masako Horii (Kanagawa Prefecture)
Human studies on consecutive monitoring of cerebral blood flow
dynamics, cardiorespiratory function at rest & exercise and sleep
architecture for 4 weeks at the top of Mt. Fuji
¥ 3,000,000
1. Cerebral blood flow dynamics and cardiorespiratory functions at
rest and exercise will be measured before and during 4 weeks on
12 healthy young male consists of 6 Himalayan climber and 6
control subjects.
Enhancement of sympathetic autonomic nervous system at Mt. Fuji
would be considered to increase of cerebral blood flow andcardiorespiratory function at rest and exercise.
Comparative studies on these prameters would be done between
Himalayan climbers and control subjects.
2. Consecutive monitoring of sleep architecture for 4 weeks nights
will be done on 12 healthy young male consists of 6 Himalayan
climbers and control subjects
Polysomnographic recordings will be performed during this period
and comparative studies would be done between subjects dosing of
Diamox and placebo.
Effectiveness of Diamox dosage for prevention of acute mountainsickness at Mt. Fuji would be confirmed by activation of respiration
during sleep.
3. Our recent results:
Mizuno, K. and Asano, K. et al.
Cnsecutive monitoring of sleep disturbance for four night at the
top of Mt. Fuji (3776m)
Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences 59, 223-225, 2005

20

FieldMain researcher(affiliation)(address; e-mail)Col1aborators(affiliation,
address, e-mail)
Theme
Annual Expense
Outline(Aim, methods andexpected outcome of
the research)High Altitude Medicine
Masako Horii
Kanagawa Health Service Association, 58 Nihon-Odori,Naka-Ku,
Yokohama, 231-0021, Japan ： horii@beige.ocn.ne.jp
Toshio Kobayashi(Shinshu Univ., School of Medicine)
Shigeru Masuyama(Ryotokuji Univ) s_masu@za2.so-net.ne.jp
NorihiroKamikomaki(KeihaiRosaiHospital) nori-k@db3.so-net.ne.jp
Acetazolamide in Prevention of Acute Mountain Sickness¥ 10,000,000 ＊Acetazolamide(Diamox) a drug often used in the treatment of theeye condition glaucoma is useful in the prevention of Acutemountain sickness (AMS). AMS occurs commonly during visit to
3,000-4500m. Rarely (but even at these altitudes) the condition
progresses to cause more serious problems which are potentiallyfatal pulmonary and cerebral edema.
Aim ： The purpose of this study is to confirm the way to use anddose of Diamox for Japanese mountaineers at high altitude.
It founded on the results of questionnaire study to investigate theeffects of Diamox on prevention of AMS, which 409 members
climbed over 6,000m high mountains during the period between
Jan.2000 and Dec.2001. [Japanese Journal of Mountain Medicine
23 : 115-122, 2003.]
Methods ： Subjects are 100 mountaineers scheduled going to climb
oversea high mountains and volunteers. The period of this study isJune to September. The climbers group make up about ten
mountaineers and five days include stay 3-4 nights at the top of
Mt.Fuji. The subjects take Diamox according to method of double
blind protocol. In addition to general health parameters at sea level
and at the top of Mt.Fuji, ACE gene measurement will be done.
The standard of acclimatization depends on AMS score (LakeLouise) and SpO2 measurement.

21

FieldMain researcher(affiliation)(address; e-mail)Col1aborators(affiliation,
address, e-mail)
Theme
Expense*Outline(Aim, methods andexpected outcome of
the research)High Altitude Medicine
Rika Ide
Eiju General Hosp. 2-23-16 Higashi-ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo, 110-8645
Japan : ride@m6.dion.ne.jp
Sho Kanzaki (Keio university Hosp. Medical school): skan@sc.itc.keio.ac.jp
Effect of inner ear function under hypobaric hypoxia¥3,000,000
Previous study investigated that the cochlear and vestibularfunction were decreased in hypobaric hypoxia but the pathogenesis
were not showed in detail. It is necessary to investigate inner ear
function not only Central Nervous System function in hypobaric
hypoxia. Another hand, it may be a help to elucidate one of thepathogenesis sudden deafness that circulation disorder in inner ear
is considered one of the cause. OAEs(=otoacoustic emissions)
measured in the external ear canal represent acoustic energy
presumed to be generated within the cochlea. OAEs reflect some
aspect of the active biophysical mechanisms within cochlear andit was clinical potential to objectively measure cochlear activity
originating the outer hair cells.
Methods: TEOAE(= transient evoked otoacoustic emissions),
DPOAE(=distortion products of otoacoustic emissions) andTympanogram will measured in 0m(sea level), 2400m and 3776m(atthe summit). SpO2 and heart rate(=HR) will measured at sametime. Before the climbing, the otoscope examination and pure tone
audiogram will be performed. It will be except middle and inner ear
disorder.
Outcomes expected: Cochlear function in hypobaric hypoxia will be
revealed. It will be shown the trend of different altitude. After ofaccommodation, the results will compaired with before. It will beable to pursuit the process of accommodation in inner ear function.

22

FieldHigh Altitude Medicine

Main researcher(affiliation)(address; e-mail)Shigeru Masuyama （Faculty of Heath Sciences, Ryotokuji University）
E-mail：s_masu@za2.so-net.ne.jp
Phone：047-382-2111

Col1aborators(affiliation,
address, e-mail)１ Human study on dynamic change of pulmonary circulation during
short stay on the summit of Mt. Fuji.
２ Human study on dynamic change of blood coagulation and fibrinolysis
system during short stay on the summit of Mt. Fuji.

Theme

Atsuko Masuda(Tokyo Medical and Dental University)

Expense*30,000US$

Outline１ Responsiveness to hypoxemia of pulmonary circulation especially of
pulmonary artery is key factor to initiate High Altitude Pulmonary
expected outcome of Edema(HAPE). Serial change of pulmonary artery’s response to vasoactive
the research)
agents such as nifedipine or sildenafil is researched.
(Aim, methods and２ Sudden death cases during mountaineering and trekking have beenreported. Infarctional episodes of coronary , cerebral and pulmonary
arteries are believed responsible for such cases, which is partially explainedby modification in blood coagulation and fibrinolysis system. Factors
such as hypoxia, hypothermia, dehydration and exercise stimulus arethough to contribute the modification. Serial change in activity of blood
coagulation and fibrinolysis and effect of anticoagulant on it would beassessed.
Human subjects are volunteer based mountaineer and trekkers. Studies
will be done before and during several days stay on the top of Mt. Fuji.

23

FieldMain researcher(affiliation)(address; e-mail)Col1aborators(affiliation,
address, e-mail)
Theme
Expense*Outline(Aim, methods andexpected outcome of
the research)High altitude medicine
Eisuke Takazakura
Kurobe City Hospital, 1108-1 Mikkaichi, Kurobe City Toyama
938-8502,Japan :sakura@med.kurobe.toyama.jp
Shigeyoshi Nagasaki
Kurobe City Hospital, 1108-1 Mikkaichi, Kurobe City Toyama,938-8502,Japan:r-sports@med.kurobe.toyama.jp
Is staying at high altitude effective for improvement of metabolic
syndrome?”¥1,000,000
Weight loss is frequently observed at high altitude. We reported
that at high altitude increase of resting energy expenditure(REE) ,lipolysis and improvement of insulin resistance were shown in obese
subjects.
However, the mechanism behind pathophysiologic changes is still
not fully understood. In this study to elucidate the mechanism of
improvement factors of metabolic syndrome at high altitude we
tested these factors at sea level and at various points of highaltitude.
Methods: Eight healthy peoples will be examined at Kurobe City
Hospital(sea level),at Mt. Tateyama Murodoudaira(2,450m), atsummit of Mt. Tateyama(3,000m) and at Mt. Fuji(3,776m).
After staying for 2days at each altitude, blood samples of each will be drown.
REE, HOMA-R(plasma insulin/glucose x 405), lipids, Leptin, noradrenalin
and adiponectin will be assayed.
Outcomes expected: results may suggest as follows; at high altitude REE andlypolysis may be accelerated according as the levels of altitude via theactivation of sympathetic nervous system which may be resulted in loss of
abdominal fat. Furthermore, decrease of HOMA-R, improvement of insulin
sensitivity, may be brought about by hypoxia according as the levels ofaltitude. Staying at high altitude may be beneficial to subjects with metabolic
syndrome , which may be more remarkable at higher altitude.

24

FieldHigh altitude medicine and physiology

Main researcher(affiliation)(address; e-mail)YAMAMOTO Masayoshi
National Institute of Fitness and Sports
Cikty, Kagoshima, 891-2393
yamamoto@nifs-k.ac.jp

Col1aborators

ASANO Katsumi

Theme

Development of High Altitude Acclimatization Training by Using
Mt. Fuji’s Environment

Expense*Outline(Aim,
methods
and outcome of
the research)¥ 3,000,000
Purpose: The altitude of 3500-4000m is suitable training field for
acclimatizing high altitude to climb high mountains or working athigh place. But there are few places above 4000m in Japan.
Therefore, high altitude sickness is a serious problem for Japanesemountaineers or workers going to high places in foreign countries.
Mt. Fuji (the highest mountain in Japan) is anticipated to be thebest place to solve the problem. We attend to try to find the methods(sojourning days and frequency at the mountain) for acclimatizing
to high altitude by using Mt. Fuji.

1 Shiromizu, Kanoya

hypk.asano@kca.biglobe.ne.jp

Methods: The subjects have various fitness tests at a laboratory at
sea level. And they go up Mt. Fuji and do various exercise or takerest at the summit. After returning to sea level, the subjects havethe same tests again, and find the training effects.
Value of this study: We will be able to find how we should do theacclimatization training in Japan for going to higher altitude offoreign country. Especially, we can prevent many accidents caused
every year by middle or high aged mountaineer who go to mountainsuch as Himalaya.

25

FieldMain researcher(affiliation)(address; e-mail)Col1aborators
Theme

Expense*Outline(Aim,
methods
and outcome of
the research)

Astronomy
Satoshi Yamamoto （ Department of Physics, The University ofTokyo）
yamamoto@taurus.phys.s.u-tokyo.ac.jp

Astronomical Observation in the Terahertz Region with aTransportable Telescope¥ 10,000,000
The summit of Mount Fuji is a unique site in Japan for
astronomical observations in the submillimeter-wave to terahertzband because of its very cold temperature and very low humidity
conditions during the winter season. It is one of the best sites in
the world, which was proven by our successful operation of theMount Fuji Submillimeter-wave Telescope from 1998 to 2005.
With this telescope, we delineated the distribution of thesubmillimeter-wave emission line of the atomic carbon (492 GHz
and 809 GHz) toward a number of nearby molecular clouds, andexplored formation and evolution of molecular clouds, which arebirthplaces of new stars.
Based on this success, we propose to make an extensive
observation of the nitrogen ion line at 1460 GHz with a small-sized
telescope. Since the nitrogen ion exists in the warm ionizedmedium, we will be able to study distribution and kinetics of suchplasma clouds in interstellar space and their roles in the formationand evolution processes of molecular clouds. With this study, we
aim at throughout understanding of global circulation of interstellar
matter in the Galaxy.
For this purpose, we will develop the transportable THz
telescope with the aperture diameter of about 20 cm. As a receiver,
we will employ the low noise HEB mixer receiver, which is now
developing in our laboratory of the University of Tokyo. The
observing system is so compact that it can be installed and operated
with a few persons at the summit of Mount Fuji. Although the skytransmittance is only 10 – 15 % at 1460 GHz, we are expecting todetect the nitrogen ion lines toward various sources. This is apioneering project for the THz astronomy, and will certainly be agood basis for a future proposal for the THz observation from space.

26

FieldMain researcher(affiliation)(address; e-mail)Col1aborators(affiliation,
address, e-mail)
Theme
Expense*Outline(Aim,
methods
and outcome of
the research)

Ecology
Takehiro Masuzawa
Faculty of Science, Shizuoka University
836, Otani, Suruga-ku, Shizuoka, 422-8529, Japansbtmasu@ipc.shizuoka.ac.jp
Emiko Maruta (Toho University, maruta@bio.sci.toho-u.ac.jp)
Miki Tomita (Shizuoka University)
Research on permafrost of Mt. Fuji and long term changes in mossand lichen community¥ 500,000
Mt. Fuji is the only place in Japan where permafrost has beenfound. Near the summit, owing to the high altitude, theenvironment for plants is very severe such as low temperature,strong wind, low humidity and immature volcanic soil. However,plenty lichen and moss are found near the summit of Mt. Fuji, someof which are living on the scarce water which slowly melts from thepermafrost and freezed soil. Therefore, observation on the
distribution of the lichen and moss community will provide
information of the existence of permafrost as well as the knowledgeof the mechanism of lichen and moss living in the extreme
environment.
Methods: Geothermal measurement will be performed at 0, 5, 15,30, 50, 70 cm from the surface, utilizing temperature sensors
followed by the calculation to estimate the position of permafrost.
For the research on lichen and moss community, the permanent
quadrats will be utilized which have been already set up in theprevious research, showing that plenty of lichen and moss wereexisting near the summit of Mt. Fuji.
Outcome Expected: In addition to the previous results obtained forthe distribution of lichen and moss from 1998 using the permanent
quadrats, a long term trend of lichen and moss will be shown atseveral sites near the summit of Mt. Fuji. The results will beutilized as an index of the position of permafrost, which can serve asa visual influence of global warming.

27

FieldMain researcher(affiliation)(address; e-mail)Col1aborators(affiliation,
address, e-mail)
Theme
Expense*Outline(Aim,
methods
and outcome of
the research)

Glaciology
Keisuke Suzuki
Faculty of Science, Shinshu
Matsumoto, 390-8621, Japan
kei@shinshu-u.ac.jp

University,Asahi

3-1-1,Asahi,

Research on chemical species in mountain snow as indexes ofatmospheric environment¥ 1,000,000
Mountains of high altitude preserve clean atmosphere because of
the severe meteorological conditions, however, recently,
anthropogenic pollutants are found in the snow samples of highmountains, transported long range from the source area.
Measurement of chemical species in dry and wet deposition in thesnow of high mountains will provide information of the source of thepollutants.
Methods
Samples will be collected from the vertical layers of snow pile for thedetermination of chemical species. The history of the layer will befound by other determination methods.
Outcome Expected
The results will show the deposition amounts of chemical species inthe snow layers of known history, as well as to develop a new simple
method in obtaining sequential samples at high mountains.

28