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Hiroshima University


Vest helps athletes keep their cool

A new cooling vest has been developed to help athletes cope with sweltering summer conditions, such as the 2020 Summer Olympics. The vest, designed by Hiroshima University and a Japanese sportswear company, features ice packs and a cooling collar that can reduce heart rate and body temperature.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·DateJun 17, 2019

'Tic'-tock

Researchers at Hiroshima University have found a genetic marker that indicates when a person with a fast heartbeat is at high risk of developing tachycardia-induced cardiomyopathy (TIC) and eventual heart failure. This discovery could lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment of the condition, reducing the risk of cardiac damage or death.

The cosmic ray gun duel of Eta Carinae

Astronomers using NASA's NuSTAR satellite have revealed that binary star system Eta Carinae is capable of creating cosmic rays. The team observed the system and found evidence of a collision between the two stars' stellar winds, which forms shock waves and accelerates particles to nearly the speed of light.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalNature Astronomy·DateJul 29, 2018

China's one-child generation not so selfish after all

A study by Hiroshima University challenges the stereotype that China's one-child generation is selfish and individualistic. The research found that this generation is just as cooperative as preceding generations of Chinese workers, with an average score of 3.86 on a five-point scale for willingness to cooperate in the workplace.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalJournal of the Asia Pacific Economy·DateDec 18, 2017

Latency of seizures determined by diet

A study from Hiroshima University found that the brain's estrogen levels are directly linked to DHA intake, which can prevent seizures. The research suggests that dietary sources of DHA may contribute to brain health and could lead to the development of new epilepsy treatments.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 17, 2017

How cells control nuclear size becomes clearer

A study by Hiroshima University researchers has discovered that controlling the hoarding of genetic materials in the nucleus causes it to bulk up. The swelling is also enabled by regulating the transport of mRNA and proteins from the nucleus into the cytoplasm, as well as lipid synthesis for nuclear membrane expansion.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateJul 11, 2017

World first: Stem cell treatment for lethal STAT1 gene mutation -- shows 'disappointing' but promising results

Researchers conducted a study assessing stem cell transplantation for patients with a rare 'gain of function' STAT1 gene mutation. The treatment showed encouraging results, with five patients being completely cured and disease-free, but the overall success rate was disappointing at 40%. Experts propose adjusting treatment parameters, s...

SourceHiroshima University·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateJun 8, 2017

New appetite control mechanism found in brain

Researchers at Hiroshima University have identified a molecule, NPGL, that increases appetite during fasting and decreases it during gorging. This discovery suggests that the body has an evolved mechanism to maintain weight at a constant level, regardless of diet or energy intake.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalEndocrinology·DateApr 28, 2017

'Smart' genetic library -- making disease diagnosis much easier

Researchers at Hiroshima University developed a smart genetic reference library to determine disease-causing mutations in populations. The technique and database estimated naturally occurring rare-variants in the STAT1 gene and determined associated diseases. This will assist doctors in diagnosing primary-immunodeficiency in patients, ...

SourceHiroshima University·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateMar 3, 2017

Scientists aim to reduce animals killed in drug testing

Researchers at Hiroshima University have developed a technique to assess anti-inflammatory properties of fortified health foods and medications using bioluminescence imaging. This method reduces the number of lab mice sacrificed and could revolutionize medicinal drug testing, particularly for obesity-related metabolic disorders.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 31, 2017

Promoting parasites

Researchers have identified four new species of parasites infecting an invasive freshwater fish in Japan. The discovery sheds light on the role of parasites in natural ecosystems and their potential impact on native species.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalSpecies Diversity·DateNov 24, 2016

Hopping to the frontier

Researchers have discovered that a common species of Asian tree frog (Hyla japonica) may be two separate species, with distinct evolutionary relationships between East and West Japan. The study's findings could lead to reassignment of the species' scientific name and shed light on the historical mystery surrounding its discovery.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalBMC Evolutionary Biology·DateNov 23, 2016

Shaking up surgery

Researchers from Hiroshima University have developed a small vibrating device that attaches to surgical tools, enhancing surgeons' sensitivity to different shapes and textures. The PZT Actuator boosts the sensation to a noticeable level, allowing doctors to detect tissue texture and identify solid tumors with greater accuracy.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalIEEE/ASME Transactions on Mechatronics·DateAug 1, 2016

Japanese tadpoles relax in hot springs

A recent study by Hiroshima University scientists found Japanese tadpoles can live and grow in natural hot springs with water temperatures up to 46.1°C. This unique adaptation may allow the species to thrive on small volcanic islands with limited fresh water sources.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalAmphibia-Reptilia·DateJul 26, 2016

How females store sperm

Researchers have identified five types of lipid, or fatty acids, that exist as droplets inside the cells of female chickens' sperm storage tubules. These lipids may be released into the sperm storage tubules and improve the sperm's survival. The study provides insight into how certain female animals are able to store sperm long-term.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalTheriogenology·DateJun 13, 2016

Power up when the temperature is down

Researchers from Hiroshima University have developed a new re-chargeable battery that can operate at below-freezing temperatures, making it suitable for use in refrigerated factories or extreme winter environments. The eco battery has the potential to be cheaper, safer, and longer-lasting than current metal-based batteries.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalBulletin of the Chemical Society of Japan·DateMay 20, 2016

The ups and downs of transportation within cells

Researchers at Hiroshima University discovered a new role for the gene Rab6 in cell polarity, which directs proteins to specific sides of cells. The study found that Rab6 distinguishes between proteins destined for different parts of the cell, shedding light on how cells maintain their orientation.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateApr 4, 2016

The tortoise and the hare of spinal neural circuits

Researchers found that practicing movements at different speeds improves certain nerve functions, particularly for patients with spasticity after a stroke or spine injury. The study suggests tailoring physical therapy routines to reflect the type of neural circuit controlling the movement for optimal rehabilitation outcomes.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalFrontiers in Human Neuroscience·DateMar 9, 2016