Our previous studies revealed the successful cultivation of protein-rich rice for feed by effective reuse of treated municipal wastewater (TWW). This study evaluated the possibility to substitute such protein-rich rice for corn in conventional diets of laying hens. Production and quality of eggs were compared between the layers feeding on a conventional diet (control), which composed of corn and soybean cake as energy and protein sources, respectively, and those fed by the protein-rich rice and soybean cake (test feed). Results showed that, owing to higher protein content in the rice relative to that in corn, the test feed reduced the usage of soybean cake by 30% compared with the control, although eight times larger amount of wheat bran, as an auxiliary material, was required to keep the nutrient balance of feed. Since soybean cake is generally highly priced compared to corn, its reduced usage could likely result in more profit for farmers even if the increased cost for wheat bran is considered. In addition, egg production and its quality observed under the test feed are comparable with those recorded under the control diet, implying that the protein-rich rice is a highly feasible substitute for corn to reduce the feed cost without compromising the egg production and quality. Flavor and taste of the eggs obtained in this experiment were also examined using a sensory test involving skilled panels. Although the boiled eggs under the test feed had milder flavor relative to those under the control, all the boiled eggs had similar taste and texture regardless of the feed types.

 Masamune Date, the beginner of Sendai Domain moved his residing castle from Iwadeyama (Osaki City, Miyagi Pref.) to Aobayama in Sendai at the end of 1600. It is said he constructed Sendai Castle at Mt. Aobayama in order to continue war readiness against Kagekatsu Uesugi although the battle of Sekigahara had finished in 1600. And he developed the castle town at undeveloped river terrace on opposite shore of Hirose River. It can be said that he judged daily life water could be surely supplied for about 50,000 residents and his retainers. However until this time, there is no research why he could judge that daily life water could be secured at such water inconvenient river terrace. As the result of our detail analysis of geographical and ground survey materials, we could clarify that water storing structure like underground dam was existing in underground aqueous layer and was possible to supply abundant daily life water. We hereby explain about it and we marvel at and admire the judgement in those days.

 Overpasses have been constructed for middle and large sized mammals, however terrestrial small mammals are greatly affected by habitat fragmentation. Understanding previous usage of overpasses by terrestrial small mammals is helpful for conducting conservation measures. Our objective is to propose appropriate measures for terrestrial small mammals based on two cases of overpass usage in Hokkaido, Japan. Muridae and the Siberian chipmunk used the planting and the railing of roads in the two cases. We considered that Muridae and the Siberian chipmunk selected these to decrease risks from predators. Therefore, we propose that the planting and the railing are important for urging the overpass usage and the road crossing of terrestrial small mammals.