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University of Tsukuba


Cleaning the brain after ischemic stroke

Researchers from the University of Tsukuba found that blocking CD300a enhances efferocytosis and ameliorates neuronal deficits after ischemic stroke. This process involves the removal of damaged cells in the brain, reducing inflammation and neurological impairment.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalScience Immunology·DateOct 17, 2021

Freezing fruit flies for future function

Scientists from the University of Tsukuba have developed a new technique to preserve Drosophila primordial germ cells, which can be used to produce new offspring. The cryopreserved PGCs were found to be effective after up to 400 days of long-term storage.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalCommunications Biology·DateOct 13, 2021

Revealing the secrets of ground beetle wing casings

A team from The University of Tsukuba used microscopy techniques to analyze the microstructure of the ground beetle's wing casing, revealing a unique helical structure that creates optical effects. This finding has significant implications for the development of new biomimetic materials with enhanced performance.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalMicron·DateOct 5, 2021

The best way to evaluate ESL texts for reading effort

Researchers found that newer formulas considering lexical sophistication, syntactic complexity, and cohesion predict ESL reading effort more accurately than traditional formulas. Eye-tracking data revealed that longer fixations, shorter movements, skipped words, and regressions indicate higher reading difficulty.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalLanguage Learning·DateSep 29, 2021

Practice makes perfect

Scientists from the University of Tsukuba analyzed video from top-level judo matches to systematically determine the aspects of posture that lead to success. The study found that the distance between competitors is a key factor in correct technique, which may assist in automating athletic training methods.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalSensors·DateSep 3, 2021

Fancy a Swim?

Researchers at the University of Tsukuba reviewed the scientific literature on swimming hydrodynamics and identified key areas for improvement. They found that certain biomechanical aspects, such as velocity and drag forces, are not fully understood, but optimizing technique can lead to a competitive edge.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalSports Biomechanics·DateSep 1, 2021

Polymer coating accelerates fuel production

Researchers from University of Tsukuba and Osaka University developed a polymer-coated metal catalyst that accelerates CO2 conversion into formate, a useful carbon-based fuel. The PEG-coated Sn catalyst showed a 24 times higher formate production rate than conventional Sn plate electrodes.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalACS Catalysis·DateAug 5, 2021

Strong signals

A team of scientists at the University of Tsukuba created a computer simulation that models the Delta-Notch signaling pathway in biliary cell differentiation. The study reveals the importance of fine-grained differentiation and proper development, dependent on the rates of production of Delta ligands and Notch receptors.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalBMC Research Notes·DateJul 20, 2021

Staying on schedule

Researchers developed an optimized schedule for automated biology lab robots, maximizing experiments within time and resource constraints. The S-LAB framework accounts for time constraints and resource conflicts, improving efficiencies in life science experiments.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalSLAS TECHNOLOGY·DateJul 15, 2021

Turn off the blue light!

Researchers from University of Tsukuba discovered that exposure to organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) before sleep reduces negative health effects on energy metabolism. OLEDs emit less blue light, leading to decreased energy expenditure and core body temperature during sleep.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 9, 2021

Seeing with radio waves

Scientists from the University of Tsukuba used radio-frequency imaging to detect nitrogen-vacancy defects in diamond with improved resolution. The technique, called spin-locking, enhances accuracy and sensitivity by shielding electron spin from random noise.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalJapanese Journal of Applied Physics·DateJul 9, 2021

A super new theory

A researcher at the University of Tsukuba introduces a new theoretical model of high-temperature superconductivity based on the calculation of the Berry connection. This model helps explain experimental results better than the current theory and may enable lossless energy transmission.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalJournal of Superconductivity and Novel Magnetism·DateJul 9, 2021

Maintaining self-control -- The careful balance of the immune system

A new study by University of Tsukuba researchers reveals how two receptors, DNAM-1 and TIGIT, maintain the necessary balance between immune activation and suppression to prevent autoimmune diseases. The findings suggest that an imbalance in this mechanism may contribute to autoimmunity, providing potential targets for treatment.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 18, 2021

To combat gum disease, help oral bacteria evolve

A study published in International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health found that exercise can alter the oral environment, favoring less harmful bacteria in people with NAFLD and gum disease. This shift may help reduce inflammation and improve overall health outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateApr 12, 2021