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University of Tokyo


Talking about regeneration

Researchers discovered that transferring regenerative genes from simple organisms into fruit flies can suppress age-related issues and promote greater intestinal stem cell division. This breakthrough has implications for developing new strategies to rejuvenate stem cell function and extend healthy lifespans, particularly in humans.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalBMC Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 1, 2024

Bacteria form glasslike state

Researchers at University of Tokyo discovered E.coli bacteria exhibit similar characteristics to colloidal glass when densely packed, exhibiting a glassy state with restricted movement. The study reveals novel properties beyond standard glass-like behavior, including spontaneous microdomain formation and collective motion.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalPNAS Nexus·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 11, 2024

Micromachines steered by microorganisms

Researchers created microscopic vehicles propelled by swimming green algae, which can be maneuvered by the algae. The team developed two types of vehicles: the rotator and the scooter, with the latter displaying erratic rolling motions.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalSmall·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 8, 2024

Fresh wind blows from historical supernova

Researchers recreated the structure of supernova remnant SN 1181 using a new computer model, explaining its double shock formation. The study also found that high-speed stellar winds may have started blowing from its surface within the past 20-30 years.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 5, 2024

Robots face the future

The team, led by Professor Shoji Takeuchi, created a layer of skin that can bind to complex forms of humanoid robots, granting them increased mobility and self-healing abilities. The research has potential applications in the cosmetics industry, medical research, and robotics.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 25, 2024

All-in-one method measures CO2 in concrete

A new device developed by University of Tokyo researchers can measure carbon dioxide captured in concrete quickly and accurately, skipping the need to crush concrete samples. This innovation aims to support global efforts to reach carbon neutrality and offset emissions from the concrete sector.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalJournal of Advanced Concrete Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 24, 2024

The declining diet of Japan’s youth

Researchers found a negative association between highly processed food consumption and healthy eating among Japanese children and adolescents, with confectioneries positively correlated. The study suggests that reducing processed food intake could be beneficial for public health.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalJournal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics·TypeObservational study·DateJun 17, 2024

Optimism wards off procrastination

A study published in Scientific Reports found that people with an optimistic outlook on the future are less likely to be severe procrastinators. The researchers surveyed nearly 300 young people and discovered that those who believed their stress levels would decrease in the future were more likely to overcome procrastination.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalScientific Reports·TypeSurvey·DateJun 10, 2024

Aiding the displaced with data

Researchers from the University of Tokyo have developed a framework to analyze and visualize population mobility data, which could help in allocating resources and personnel effectively. The study used GPS data from displaced individuals in Russia's invasion of Ukraine, revealing patterns of migration that vary by socioeconomic status.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalScientific Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 2, 2024

The case of the missing black holes

Researchers propose a novel approach to correct the leading model of primordial black hole (PBH) formation, aligning with cosmic microwave background observations. This could imply fewer PBHs than expected, potentially affecting the dark matter theory and gravitational wave events.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 29, 2024

Hiding in plain sight

A team of researchers from Japan, China, and Finland created a system called generative content replacement (GCR) that uses AI to replace parts of images that might threaten confidentiality with visually similar but AI-generated alternatives. In tests, 60% of viewers couldn't tell which images had been altered.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·TypeImaging analysis·DateMay 29, 2024

The secret sex life of coral revealed

A study published in Royal Society Open Science reveals that corals use multiple environmental inputs to synchronize their spawning timing. Water temperature is identified as the primary trigger for determining the annual window of opportunity, with rainfall and solar radiation also playing a role.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·TypeObservational study·DateMay 28, 2024

Understanding a broken heart

A new study reveals that heart failure leaves a 'stress memory' in hematopoietic stem cells, which can lead to recurrent heart failure and other health issues. The researchers propose improving TGF-β levels as a new avenue for treating recurrent heart failure.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalScience Immunology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 24, 2024

Observing mammalian cells with superfast soft X-rays

Researchers developed a new technique to view living mammalian cells using ultrafast pulses of illumination from a soft X-ray free electron laser. The microscope captured images of carbon-based structures in living cells with high spatial resolution and a wide field of view, revealing new insights into cellular biology.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalOptica·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 24, 2024

Name that odor

Identical odors are processed differently in the brain based on their assigned labels, according to new research. The study found that participants rated odors with different names as more dissimilar than those labeled with the same name.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalHuman Brain Mapping·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 13, 2024

Illusion helps demystify the way vision works

A new study using electrophysiology and optogenetics has shown that neurons in the primary visual cortex respond to brightness illusions, settling a long-standing debate in neuroscience. The findings suggest that higher-level neurons play a crucial role in modulating activity in lower-level neurons.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 26, 2024

Squids’ birthday influences mating

Research found that male spear squid's mating tactic is determined by their birthdate, with earlier-born squids adopting a 'consort' strategy and later-born squids using 'sneaking' tactics. This study suggests that environmental conditions at birth may impact growth trajectory and reproductive success.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateApr 23, 2024

A better view with new mid-infrared nanoscopy

A team at the University of Tokyo has constructed an improved mid-infrared microscope that enables them to see the structures inside living bacteria at the nanometer scale with a resolution of 120 nanometers. This breakthrough can aid multiple fields of research, including into infectious diseases.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 17, 2024

A natural touch for coastal defense

A new study found that hybrid coastal defenses, which combine natural and hard measures, are more cost-effective and provide higher hazard reduction in low-risk areas. In contrast, soft measures such as restoring or rehabilitating natural ecosystems are also beneficial in terms of environmental benefits.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 9, 2024

Feeling the music

A new study found that fluctuations in music chord predictions evoke specific bodily sensations, particularly in the heart and abdomen. Researchers also discovered a link between these sensations and feelings of pleasure, which could have applications for using music to improve well-being.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournaliScience·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 4, 2024

Wild bird gestures “after you”

Researchers at the University of Tokyo discovered that Japanese tit birds use wing movements as a symbolic gesture to communicate with their mates, mirroring human-like behavior. The study found that the birds' wing-fluttering display prompted the mate to enter the nest box first, while the one who fluttered entered second.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeObservational study·DateMar 25, 2024

Brown bears digging up artificial forests

Researchers found that brown bears' digging for cicada nymphs damages tree roots and alters soil nitrogen content, limiting tree diameter growth. This phenomenon is unique to human-planted conifer forests, with no similar effects in natural forests.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalEcology·TypeObservational study·DateMar 1, 2024

Climate change shrinking fish

A new study by University of Tokyo researchers found that fish weight in the western North Pacific Ocean decreased in the 2010s due to warmer waters limiting food supplies. Climate change is exacerbating competition for resources among fish species, with implications for fisheries and policymakers.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalFish and Fisheries·DateFeb 28, 2024

Anti-vaccine conspiracies fuel divisive political discourse

A new study reveals that online political engagement and conspiracy theories played key roles in shaping Japanese anti-vaccine sentiments. Long-term anti-vaxxers tended to lean left, while those brought into the fold during the pandemic exhibited weaker interest and frequent references to spirituality.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalJournal of Computational Social Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 26, 2024

Measuring neutrons to reduce nuclear waste

Researchers at the University of Tokyo have developed a method to accurately measure and predict neutron-induced transmutation, which can make nuclear waste more stable. This technique could lead to improved nuclear waste treatment facilities and new theories about the creation of heavier elements in the universe.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalPhysics Letters B·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 15, 2024

Predicting psychosis before it occurs

A machine-learning tool trained on brain MRI scans of over 2,000 people worldwide can accurately predict psychosis before it occurs. The tool achieved an accuracy rate of 85% in training and 73% in testing, suggesting its potential as a valuable aid for early diagnosis.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 8, 2024

Researchers strike gold with improved catalyst

Researchers at the University of Tokyo discovered a way to improve gold catalysts' durability by creating a protective layer of metal oxide clusters. The enhanced gold catalysts can withstand a greater range of physical environments, increasing their range of possible applications and reducing energy consumption.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 6, 2024

Shuffling robot uses biological muscle to move and spin

Researchers at the University of Tokyo have created a two-legged biohybrid robot capable of walking and pivoting underwater. The robot uses lab-grown skeletal muscle tissue to move its legs, achieving efficient and silent movements. Future iterations aim to develop thicker muscles with nutrient supplies to enable robots to walk on land.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalMatter·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2024

Our surprising magnetic galaxy

A team of astronomers created the first-ever 3D map of magnetic field structures within a spiral arm of the Milky Way galaxy, showing that magnetic fields break away from the general picture and impact star-forming regions. The findings suggest that magnetic fields played a role in creating our own solar system.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeObservational study·DateJan 11, 2024

Quantum batteries break causality

Researchers from the University of Tokyo have developed a new way to charge quantum batteries using optical apparatuses and the phenomenon of indefinite causal order. This approach enables significant gains in energy storage and thermal efficiency, even with lower power chargers.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 14, 2023

Mothers need more “exclusive breastfeeding” support

A study from the University of Tokyo found that the World Health Organization's 24-hour recall method overestimates exclusive breastfeeding by six times. The researchers suggest that in-hospital breastfeeding support and guidance are crucial for increasing exclusive breastfeeding rates. To improve breastfeeding outcomes, experts recomm...

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalBMJ Global Health·TypeSurvey·DateDec 7, 2023

New method verifies carbon capture in concrete

Researchers develop a method to verify whether carbon in concrete comes from air or raw materials. By analyzing carbon isotopes, they can confirm direct air capture and certify offsetting CO2 emissions. This technology is crucial for the construction industry and supports a circular economy.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalJournal of Advanced Concrete Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 27, 2023

Stronger, stretchier, self-healing plastic

Researchers at University of Tokyo developed a new plastic material called VPR, which can maintain complex shapes, repair itself with heat, and biodegrade in seawater. The material has improved toughness, shape memory, and recyclability.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalACS Materials Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 1, 2023

Deep learning speeds up galactic calculations

A new approach using deep learning speeds up supernova simulation by 99%, enabling more accurate modeling of galaxy evolution. This breakthrough could also apply to climate and earthquake simulations, providing valuable insights into complex phenomena.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 25, 2023

Physical theory improves protein folding prediction

Researchers developed a novel physical theory that can accurately predict protein folding, surpassing existing models like AlphaFold 2. The new model, WSME-L, can elucidate folding processes without limitations, enabling a comprehensive understanding of protein structures and behaviors.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 19, 2023

Cobalt-free battery for cleaner, greener power

Researchers from the University of Tokyo have developed a cobalt-free battery alternative that outperforms state-of-the-art battery chemistry. The new lithium-ion batteries boast a 60% higher energy density and can withstand over 1,000 recharge cycles, reducing environmental concerns.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 19, 2023

“Starquakes” could explain mystery signals

Researchers found distinct similarities between starquakes and earthquakes, but a difference with solar flares. The team analyzed nearly 7,000 bursts from three repeater FRB sources, comparing them to earthquake and solar flare data.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·TypeObservational study·DateOct 11, 2023