Preface

The fiscal year (FY) 2001 was an epoch-making year for National Institute of Radiological Sciences (NIRS) since NIRS re-started as an independent administrative institution(IAI) this year. This change was a part of administrative reform of Japanese government. we conducted our activities and services in accordance with the middle term (from FY 2001 to 2005) plan and the FY 2001 annual plan that submitted to the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sport, Science and Technology (MEXT) and announced for the public. In parallel we established new standards for evaluation, a high quality technical support system, a strengthened information system, etc. Public relations became more important for NIRS to increase opportunities to communicate with the general public. For this purpose we held open lectures and open exhibitions.

Results of our activities in FY 2001 were reported to MEXT in June, which included financial report. The newly established external evaluation committee will evaluate the results in mid 2002 and announce its opinion to the public.

The whole research activities smoothly progressed in accordance with the middle term plan in spite of partial influences of reorganization and relocation of laboratories on research groups. In addition to 5 major projects, a frontier type research project, 20 fundamental subjects, etc. are being conducted under the middle-term plan. Small scale funds were provided for emerging basic research to encourage young investigators, where new 48 themes were selected by President among 78 applications.

A total of 224 original papers were published and 22 patents were submitted in FY 2001. Based on clinical trials of more than 1,200 patients Heavy Ion Radiotherapy for cancers was applied in April 2002 to Ministry of Health, Welfare and Labor for a license of highly advanced medical procedures. It is my great pleasure to publish the FY 2001 general report of NIRS activities. I welcome your comments and frank opinions including criticisms. NIRS is determined to make every effort to serve as the center of excellence in the field of radiological sciences in Japan. I sincerely hope your contituing supports and cooperation for NIRS.

Yasuhito Sasaki, M. D., Ph. D.
President