Scientists at Saitama University developed multifunctional UV-protective food-packaging films by upcycling polyamide microplastics into defect-engineered carbon quantum dots. The films exhibit transparency, flexibility, and UV-blocking performance, reducing food loss and improving product quality.
Researchers developed a framework to optimize energy management in recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) by coordinating equipment operation with renewable generation. The study demonstrated substantial reductions in electricity consumption and CO₂ emissions while maintaining fish safety, using dissolved oxygen as a key process state.
Researchers studied deformation-accommodating support systems incorporating yielding elements to address squeezing ground deformation in tunnels. The study found that the deformation behavior of the entire support system changes depending on the installation angle of yielding elements.
A team of researchers from Saitama University has discovered a natural peptide aptamer called Calmodulin-binding peptide (CBP) that can selectively recognize two structurally distinct proteins, calmodulin and human midkine. CBP binds to calmodulin in the presence of calcium ions and to human midkine in the presence of sodium ions.
Researchers at Saitama University have developed a sequential annulation strategy to construct regioisomeric ladder-type oligothiophenes with precise control over thiophene ring orientation. This allows for the systematic synthesis of complex molecular structures, paving the way for the design of next-generation organic semiconductors.
Carbon quantum dots can be designed to absorb specific wavelengths using atomic defects, enabling targeted optical functions and applications. The study provides a predictive framework for designing defect-encoded CQDs with controlled excitonic behavior.
Researchers at Saitama University have developed cyanobacterial strains that produce free fatty acids and secrete them into the culture medium, enabling efficient production of sustainable aviation fuel and diesel fuel alternatives. The extracellular production strategy reduces energy consumption and minimizes residual cellular waste.
A study at Saitama University found that subtle changes in molecular structure can significantly affect aggregation and interfacial behavior of sugar-based surfactants. The researchers demonstrated that the sulfur oxidation state alters the relationship between aggregation in water and surface tension.
Researchers at Saitama University discovered that mannanases, enzymes degrading glucomannan, are also essential for its synthesis in plants. The study found that Golgi-localized atypical mannanases play a crucial role in preventing aggregation of growing glucomannan chains.
Researchers at Saitama University have identified ATP-P2X7 signaling as a neural mechanism that drives powerful colonic contractions necessary for defecation. The study reveals a new pathway involving the P2X7 receptor and cholinergic neurons, providing fresh insight into gastrointestinal motility.
Researchers at Saitama University have revealed that DmMSL10, an ion channel, acts as the Venus flytrap's primary touch sensor. This discovery showcases how plants can sensitively detect gentle stimuli, leading to efficient prey capture and trap closure.
Plant researchers visualized real-time plant-plant communication through airborne volatile organic compounds (VOCs), revealing a Ca2+ dependent defense response mechanism. The study found that specific VOCs, such as (Z)-3-hexenal and (E)-2-hexenal, induce Ca2+ signals in plants, activating defense responses.
Researchers at Saitama University reveal how and why the sensitive plant Mimosa pudica moves its leaves rapidly through calcium-mediated signaling molecules. The study found that bursts of fluorescence travel rapidly throughout the leaves, triggering leaf movements.