Researchers at Tohoku University developed a new method to predict the mechanical properties of iron ore pellets under extreme heat, combining high-energy X-ray CT with computer simulations. The findings could help improve the efficiency and stability of blast furnaces, enabling the steel industry to move toward lower-carbon production.
A research team has identified the conditions that allow rapidly feeding supermassive black holes to launch powerful relativistic jets. The team observed 3C 120, an active galaxy with a supermassive black hole rapidly accreting matter while launching a powerful jet.
Researchers found sex-specific differences in fetal brain gene expression linked to advanced paternal age, shedding light on autism's biological mechanisms. Female embryos conceived by aged fathers showed distinct gene expression profiles and increased gene expression levels.
A team of researchers at Tohoku University has developed an automated experimental system for bulk metallic materials, enabling continuous workflow from heat treatment to structural analysis and mechanical property evaluation. The system evaluates mechanical properties with accuracy comparable to conventional measurements, conducting t...
Researchers at Tohoku University developed a method to predict sewer pipe corrosion by analyzing sulfate-reducing bacteria in wastewater. The method, which combines ecological modeling and machine learning, identified pipe sections at higher risk of corrosion and improved the accuracy of inspection records.
Researchers at Tohoku University developed a new route to create nanoporous silicon carbide using liquid metal dealloying at 800°C, lower than the usual high-temperature processing required. This process simultaneously formed crystalline β-SiC and a three-dimensional nanoporous architecture made of nanoscale plates.
Mammalian cells produce and store cyclo-octasulfur, a stable form of elemental sulfur, to protect tissues from lipid damage and oxidative stress. S₈ levels are found to be higher in cancerous breast tissues, suggesting a potential role in breast cancer prevention.
A new labeling tool has revealed hexokinase-1 as a G-quadruplex binding protein, which may connect metabolism and gene regulation. The method, developed by Tohoku University researchers, overcomes previous limitations and captures unexpected protein interactions.
A new map shows where atmospheric formaldehyde on early Mars is likely to have reached the surface, potentially providing clues to the origins of life on the planet. Water vapor played a crucial role in formaldehyde formation and delivery, with water-rich regions predicted to receive more formaldehyde than drier areas.
Researchers found that anti-flooding infrastructure can sometimes make floods worse, especially during lighter rain. The study used computer simulations to analyze the impact of modern terrain modifications on flood hazards and exposure.
Researchers at Tohoku University have developed an ultrasound-based method to convert iron powder into magnetic oxide nanoparticles in hours, eliminating the need for chemical reagents. The process involves using ultrasound to activate the interface between metallic iron and water, resulting in the direct formation of nanoscale oxide p...
Kyocera and Tohoku University developed a new technology integrating optical isolators onto silicon photonics chips using laser annealing. This method allows for localized heating, reducing damage to surrounding components. The technology resulted in an isolation ratio of 13.6 dB, confirming its operation as an optical isolator.
Researchers developed molecular antennae to boost visible-light sensitivity of azobenzene photoswitches, preserving stability. The new design achieved high visible-light sensitivities, with one molecule reaching 8,100 M⁻¹ cm⁻¹.
Researchers at Tohoku University developed a novel approach to track bending stress in microscopic devices using nitrogen vacancy centers in diamond crystals. The study shows that the sensing region can be integrated into the mechanical device itself, enabling the detection of both tensile and compressive bending stress.
Researchers at Tohoku University have discovered a systematic strategy for designing topological magnets by varying the number of layers in a crystal structure. The new approach, based on homologous series, could lead to new materials with unique magnetic and topological properties for applications in spintronics and quantum technologies.
Researchers developed a copper phthalocyanine catalyst from an inexpensive blue pigment that efficiently converts CO₂ into methane in a single electrochemical step. The system achieved high current density and Faradaic efficiency, demonstrating improved selectivity and durability compared to conventional catalysts.
A research team at Tohoku University and Islamic Azad University developed a mathematical solution to simulate heat propagation through rods when heated simultaneously. They used a matrix equation to calculate the complementary error function, enabling rapid simulation of heat transfer.
Researchers at Tohoku University have identified a key molecule, AKT5, that promotes leaf stalk growth in plants. By understanding AKT5's function, scientists can develop efficient high-density cropping systems and boost agricultural productivity.
Researchers at Tohoku University have developed a new method for creating efficient micromixers inside polymer fibers, enabling rapid mixing of minute amounts of liquid. The twisted microchannels fabricated using this method promote mixing even at low Reynolds numbers, making it suitable for various applications.
Researchers trained AI on stick insect walking cycle to find optimal walking strategy, resulting in a six-legged robot that can navigate treacherous terrain and adapt to missing limbs. The approach allows for cheaper and faster robot production, enabling potential disaster response applications.
Researchers at Tohoku University found that stimulating the vagus nerve after training improves long-term learning in mice, suggesting a previously underappreciated mechanism behind vagus nerve stimulation. The study reveals that rhythmic changes in brain blood vessels play a key role in supporting long-term learning.
Researchers developed a recyclable system using baker's yeast to store H₂ in organic molecules and iron ions to release it when needed. The method uses polyhydric alcohols and polyketones, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional H₂ production and storage methods.
Researchers used AI to predict genes leading to hematopoietic stem cell aging, finding a regulatory hub in the form of gene-regulating factor Pbx1. Aged stem cells activate two gene programs, one preserving immaturity and the other preparing cells for platelet production.
Researchers developed a nanoplatform that addresses three barriers to TNBC immunotherapy by eliminating Tregs, destroying cancer cells, and activating innate immunity. In preclinical studies, the platform achieved 100% complete tumor regression and extended median survival beyond 70 days.
A 15-year study found that tracking trauma symptoms during the first two years after a disaster is a better predictor of long-term mental health than a single assessment. Continuous monitoring identifies those at risk of long-term psychological distress, highlighting the importance of regular mental health check-ups.
Researchers from Tohoku University and the University of Tokyo developed super exosomes that target senescent cells, improving frailty and physical performance in aged mice. The technology has potential applications in healthy aging, cognitive function, and reproductive medicine.
Researchers at Tohoku University identified a new class of small molecules that improves drought tolerance in plants without causing unwanted side effects. The compounds, NS5806 and UA49, inhibit stomatal opening and enhance plant survivability during water scarcity.
A team of researchers has discovered that supermassive black hole winds are 100 times more powerful than previously thought, carrying energy across 300,000 light-year distances. This finding demonstrates the explosive winds' impact on space beyond galaxies.
Researchers at Tohoku University developed a method to restore the mechanical strength of degraded polybutylene terephthalate by repairing molecular chains with a chain extender. The technique recovers plastic tensile strength to nearly that of virgin material, enabling high-performance plastics to be reused instead of discarded.
Researchers at Tohoku University discovered a paradox in REM sleep where the brain's energy molecule decreases despite an increase in fuel supply. This finding suggests that the brain dynamically adjusts its energy economy to support complex internal processing, revealing new insights into biological computation and sleep function.
A new study using remote sensing and machine learning found that mining for green technology minerals has unexpected consequences on biodiversity. The research revealed that commodities such as lithium and cobalt have the highest biodiversity risks despite lower levels of forest loss.
A research team has overcome two major hurdles for photo thermal therapy, a less invasive treatment option than surgery and radiation. They created a new biodegradable protein called IDP1 that helps nanoparticles avoid immune detection, and developed an ultra-thin endoscope to deliver laser light directly into tumors.
A research group at Tohoku University has overturned the long-standing assumption that smoother surfaces produce less aerodynamic drag. By applying Distributed Micro-Roughness, they achieved a world-first experimental demonstration of up to 43.6% drag reduction.
Researchers at Tohoku University have developed high-performance silk with 50% greater tensile strength and reduced shrinkage after wetting. By altering silkworm diets, they added plant-derived cellulose nanofibers to improve silk fibers' properties.
Scientists at Tohoku University identified an optimal lithium concentration that allows for even lithium deposition and a stronger protective layer on the battery's surface. This discovery enables the development of safer, longer-lasting, high-energy-density rechargeable batteries.
Researchers at Tohoku University have discovered a previously unknown pathway for B-cell development in chickens, bypassing the bursa of Fabricius. The discovery reveals that B cells originate in the bone marrow and migrate to the cecal tonsils, establishing an IgA-mediated intestinal barrier.
Two Lancet papers call for Japan to redesign its health system and global health strategy by 2040. The country must adapt its approach from a hospital- and service-volume-centred system to one focused on people's lives, health outcomes, and communities.
Researchers developed a thermal catalyst with high CO oxidation activity under low-temperature conditions. By introducing dithiolate bridging ligands, the team reinforced the nanocluster's outer framework while allowing weaker ligands to be removed more easily.
Researchers from Tohoku University and IIT Indore developed a sulfide-templated Cu nanocluster that selectively produces methanol from CO₂ under mild conditions. This breakthrough enables precise modulation of the copper valence state in nanoclusters, unlocking cleaner and more efficient pathways for converting CO₂ into valuable fuels.
Researchers from Tohoku University developed a molecularly designed COF-graphene interlayer to mitigate polysulfide shuttling in Li-S batteries. The TUS-44@G layer delivered high reversible capacity, excellent rate capability, and long-term durability.
A research team from Tohoku University successfully controlled the spiral handedness of a metallic helimagnet using spin-polarized neutron scattering. This breakthrough enables ultra-high-density storage by utilizing the material's chirality to represent binary data.
The Super-Kamiokande observatory has detected an indication of the Diffuse Supernova Neutrino Background (DSNB), a flux of neutrinos from many different supernovae over time. This breakthrough achievement provides a crucial clue for understanding the history of cosmic star formation and nucleosynthesis.
Researchers have developed a plasma technology that can produce nitrogen fertilizer suitable for cultivating rice seedlings under lunar conditions. The technology successfully neutralizes highly alkaline regolith and releases critical mineral nutrients, allowing plants to absorb them more readily.
Janus 2D materials' synthesis has been solved by uncovering the underlying physics, paving the way for more precise manufacturing of electronics and clean energy technologies. The 'Electron Accumulation Model' controls the reaction at room temperature, accelerating it with ultraviolet light.
Scientists at Tohoku University have developed a new sample-preparation technique called gradient blotting, allowing for the observation of materials in their native liquid environments. This breakthrough extends cryo-electron microscopy beyond water-based systems, enabling the study of materials under realistic processing conditions.
A team of researchers has developed a zinc oxide material that exhibits strong and highly sensitive mechanoluminescence without using rare-earth elements. The material combines high sensitivity with low cost, making it suitable for various applications such as biomedical sensors and infrastructure monitoring.
A study of 585 older adults found that different patterns of depressive symptoms are associated with disability-free survival, differing between men and women. Stronger feelings of 'worthlessness' were a significant risk factor for men, while 'anxiety' was a bigger risk factor for women.
A Japan-US collaborative team has developed the world's first integrated spintronic probabilistic bit on a silicon chip, paving the way for large-scale spintronic p-computers. The innovation addresses computational problems requiring parallel processing of enormous numbers of possible states.
A new approach to guiding spin waves around sharp corners has been developed, resulting in a significant boost in signal strength. The innovation uses a two-dimensional magnonic crystal with a copper film perforated with holes, creating a 'complete magnonic bandgap' that reflects spin waves.
A new study by Tohoku University researchers has identified dopamine dysfunction as a previously unrecognized mechanism underlying memory impairment in Alzheimer's disease. The discovery may lead to the development of targeted therapies to restore cognitive function and potentially reverse cognitive decline.