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Ritsumeikan University


Unintended consequences: analyzing interventions on mercury use and emissions in artisanal gold mining

Researchers analyzed three intervention strategies to mitigate mercury use and emissions in artisanal gold mining, finding that while some methods reduce emissions, others create new environmental problems. The study suggests a need for more comprehensive approaches to address the complex issues surrounding mercury use.

SourceRitsumeikan University·JournalResources Conservation and Recycling·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 24, 2022

Droplet-array sandwiching technology: Making versatile biochemical tools out of droplets

Researchers at Ritsumeikan University have created a technique to precisely control the concentration of chemicals in droplets using electrowetting-on-dielectric (EWOD). This allows for accurate drug screening and cell-based analysis, enabling the efficient handling of substances on a smaller scale than traditional pipettes.

SourceRitsumeikan University·JournalSensors and Actuators B Chemical·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 25, 2022

Radiation for responsible recycling: A distributed, microwave-based method to recycle batteries

A new distributed recycling system using microwave irradiation recovers 97% of manganese oxide and zinc from spent alkaline batteries, outperforming conventional methods. The system's potential to reduce annual energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions in Japan is estimated at 26,500 GJ and 1.54 Gg-CO2 eq, respectively.

SourceRitsumeikan University·JournalResources Environment and Sustainability·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 7, 2022

Assessing the environmental impact of nuclear power generation

A study by Ritsumeikan University researchers analyzed the life cycle assessment of nuclear power generation, revealing varying TMR coefficients across different mining methods and fuel cycles. The results show that nuclear power generates similar natural resources as renewable energy, significantly less than thermal power.

SourceRitsumeikan University·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 20, 2022

Towards indoor lighting-powered thin-film, flexible solar cells with piezophototronics

Ritsumeikan University researchers create a novel thin-film flexible piezoelectric-photovoltaic device that can generate electricity from indoor lighting. The device's performance is improved through strain-induced polarization in the ZnMgO layer, increasing open-circuit voltage and overcoming charge recombination issues.

SourceRitsumeikan University·JournalNano Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 8, 2022

Breathing to win: Scientists show importance of screening breathing patterns in athletic populations

A recent study reveals that 91% of athletes display dysfunctional breathing patterns, which can lead to increased risk of musculoskeletal injuries. The study emphasizes the importance of screening and addressing these patterns through targeted interventions and breathing training protocols.

SourceRitsumeikan University·JournalThe Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 26, 2022

Bonding through teamwork: A route to sustainable chemistry

Researchers at Ritsumeikan University develop a sustainable alternative to transition metal catalysts for producing diaryl ethers, which are crucial for pharmaceutical applications. The new method uses a readily available starting material and achieves significantly higher yields and selectivity than existing techniques.

SourceRitsumeikan University·JournalOrganic Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 28, 2022

Not just a sprained ankle: Scientists show musculoskeletal injury may affect gut microbiome

A recent study by researchers from Ritsumeikan University found that athletes with a history of sprained ankle showed reduced gut bacteria diversity compared to those without such a history. This suggests that musculoskeletal injury may have a negative impact on the gut microbiota, potentially leading to long-term health consequences.

SourceRitsumeikan University·JournalResearch in Sports Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 15, 2022

The power of chaos: a robust and low-cost cryptosystem for the post-quantum era

A team of researchers from Ritsumeikan University developed an unprecedented stream cipher using chaos theory to create highly secure cryptographic systems. The new system is resistant to statistical attacks and eavesdropping, even against quantum computers, making it a promising solution for post-quantum era cryptosystems.

SourceRitsumeikan University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Circuits and Systems·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 1, 2022

Killing pain without hurting the body: Novel compound that is potentially safer than current drugs

Researchers discover novel compound AD732 with anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, outperforming standard NSAIDs while causing minimal harm. The compound may be a safer alternative for treating pain and inflammation in difficult diseases like ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.

SourceRitsumeikan University·JournalEuropean Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 14, 2021

Scientists pick up the 'slack' on describing the brain networks behind motor function

A new study by Ritsumeikan University reveals that whole-body dynamic balance training increases brain connectivity and improves motor learning. The research found significant changes in brain activity associated with offline learning, opening up new avenues for studying neural networks during natural tasks.

SourceRitsumeikan University·JournalMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 22, 2021