Researchers from University of Tsukuba have demonstrated successive proton transport mechanism in a material that may be a future source of reliable primary and backup power. The study reveals the chemistry underlying this phenomenon, which has implications for improving fuel cell efficiency and stability.
Researchers from University of Tsukuba found a decrease in COVID-19-related house call services due to lower seasonal flu activity, but an increase in severe cases. Hospital capacity strains during the pandemic contributed to this trend.
Scientists from the University of Tsukuba directly observed electron dynamics in organic film OLEDs, revealing a previously unknown feature of exciton decay. The study's findings may contribute to the development of more efficient OLED-based products.
A new nematode species, Cryptaphelenchus abietis, has been discovered inside bark beetles emerging from a dead log in Nagano, Japan. The species is cultivable and may become a useful model for studying the physiological and ecological evolution of nematodes.
A team of researchers from Japan and Germany created a mouse model that mimics the human pathology of restrictive cardiomyopathy, allowing for easier study. The model shows changes in protein quality control and autophagy, leading to fibrosis and heart muscle stiffening.
A new study reveals regional disparities in dental care utilization in Japan, particularly among lower-income and less educated populations. The research found that these groups are more likely to neglect preventive treatments like calculus removal, leading to more severe tooth problems and increased healthcare costs.
Researchers at the University of Tsukuba developed a novel technique to generate BM chimeric mice without irradiation, promoting cost-effectiveness and animal safety. This approach enables scientists to study the immune system in both healthy and diseased states using culture-based enrichment of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells.
Zirconia ceramics exhibit improved toughness due to phase changes, but real-time observation of these changes is challenging. Researchers employ time-resolved X-ray diffraction to visualize transformation toughening during dynamic fracture.
Scientists demonstrated spatial distribution of circularly polarized light emitted by micro-spherical molecular assemblies, shedding light on helical molecular structures and chirality. This finding may inspire new versatile tools for studying molecular structure to enhance computer displays and everyday technologies.
Researchers from the University of Tsukuba have demonstrated the direct conversion of scar tissue cells to heart muscle cells in mice after a heart attack. This breakthrough finding suggests that fibroblasts can be directly reprogrammed into cardiomyocytes, potentially preventing heart failure and death.
Researchers from the University of Tsukuba have identified two metal-independent carbonic anhydrase enzymes that improve our knowledge of the global carbon cycle. These enzymes may play a crucial role in CO2 metabolism, particularly in metal-poor environments.
An international team used Raman microspectroscopy and imaging to identify signatures in the elastic and collagen fibers of the aorta that indicate the presence of an aneurysm. The study found biomarkers for thoracic aortic aneurysms, which could enable early detection and potentially save lives.
A University of Tsukuba study found that Japan's south foehn is driven by dynamic mechanisms, not thermodynamic effects. Dangerously hot windstorms occurred when a typhoon was present, highlighting the need for predictive models to mitigate harm.
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.
Researchers at the University of Tsukuba found that both endurance and high-intensity intermittent training improved exercise capacity and brain function in rats. HIIT resulted in increased cellular aerobic capacity and better memory for spatial learning trials.
Higher levels of interleukin 1β in an aggression-related brain region lead to fewer aggressive behaviors in mice, likely via its effects on serotonin neurons. The study suggests that interleukin 1β and serotonin neurons might be potential drug targets for reducing aggression.
Researchers from the University of Tsukuba sent mice to space to study the effects of microgravity on muscle atrophy. The team found that artificial gravity prevented changes in gene expression and muscle wasting in mice.
Researchers at the University of Tsukuba tested the new Flight 2020 Soccer Ball, finding it more stable than previous versions but with reduced flight range. The team attributed this tradeoff to increased surface roughness, which may improve the design of future sports equipment.
Researchers from the University of Tsukuba found that PDGFRa+ cells in the adventitia contribute to neointima formation, a process where blood vessels thicken and cause blockages. The type of injury inflicted on blood vessels affects how these cells respond.
A new method developed by University of Tsukuba researchers detects multiple landslides associated with Typhoon Talas, revealing smaller landslides detected hundreds of kilometers from the epicenter.
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.
Researchers at the University of Tsukuba found that exercise regimen reduced liver steatosis by 9.5%, liver stiffness by 6.8%, and FibroScan-AST Score by 16.4%. Exercise preserved muscle mass, independent of weight loss, and induced anti-inflammatory responses.
Researchers from the University of Tsukuba have discovered that interactions between proteins and nitrate control gene expression in legumes, leading to nodulation. The team found that specific proteins with varying DNA-binding properties regulate symbiotic genes involved in nodulation, which is induced by nitrate presence.
Researchers used a mouse model to identify the role of autoreactive T cells against transcriptional intermediary factor 1γ (TIF1γ) in dermatomyositis. The study found that autoreactive CD8+ T cells contribute to the pathogenesis of the disease, while autoantibodies are non-pathogenic clinical markers.
Sea urchin larvae use light to control digestion by opening and closing the pylorus, a critical component of the digestive tract. This finding suggests that early brain functions may have included regulating digestion, providing insights into animal evolution.
A University of Tsukuba study identifies a cost-effective way to promote dietitian-led patient education and lifestyle advice for chronic kidney disease management. By adjusting reimbursements and incentivizing general physicians, the intervention can slow CKD progression and extend patients' lives.
Researchers found that the lateral habenula (LHb) regulates cardiovascular responses via the serotonergic system, controlling heart rate and blood pressure. The study provides new insights into the neural mechanisms underlying stress-induced behavioral responses.
Researchers from the University of Tsukuba found that vigorous exercise enhances sleep quality despite lack of subjective change. Exercise improves slow-wave sleep stability, which may lead to new treatment recommendations for sleep disorders.
Researchers developed a new method to model complex earthquake rupture processes affecting systems of multiple faults. The approach was applied to the magnitude 7.9 Gulf of Alaska earthquake, revealing irregular behavior linked to pre-existing ocean floor features, including fracture zones and plate-bending faults.
A team of researchers at the University of Tsukuba demonstrated second-order nonlinear optical effects in diamonds using internal color center defects. This breakthrough may lead to faster internet communications, all-optical computers, and quantum sensing technologies.
A University of Tsukuba research team discovered that certain fungi can grow through narrow channels by altering their growth rate. This process allows them to maintain cell polarity and continue growing, whereas slower-growing species are impeded, resulting in defective cellular processes.
A team of researchers from the University of Tsukuba found that genes on the X chromosome in male fruit fly germ cells are not subject to dosage compensation, unlike other cells. The absence of this process may affect sex determination in Drosophila PGCs.
Researchers discovered that spraying leaves with high concentrations of ascorbic acid increases protein production three-fold in plants. This simple method can produce valuable pharmaceutical proteins at a lower cost and with increased efficiency.
Researchers at the University of Tsukuba successfully detect and map electronic spins in a working transistor made of molybdenum disulfide. This breakthrough could lead to the development of faster spintronic computers that exploit electrons' natural magnetism.
A Japanese study found that areas with heavy snowfall see a significant decline in cyclist injuries and total injuries among pedestrians. This modal shift may offer a broader solution for road safety.
Researchers at University of Tsukuba have developed a novel technique for transplanting HSCs into mouse embryos without destroying the host hematopoietic system. This breakthrough enables the study of fetal hematopoiesis and paves the way for future humanization using human HSCs.
Scientists used theoretical calculations to predict electronic states in topological insulators excited with laser beams, generating Dirac states that can act as if massless. This discovery may pave the way for new computers systems that waste less energy.
Chronic increases in interleukin (IL)-17A levels in mouse blood reduce microglia activity in the hippocampus, a region crucial for learning and memory. Despite this effect on cognition, spatial memory remains unaffected in mutant mice.
Researchers from the University of Tsukuba found that ocean acidification favors degraded turf algal systems over corals and other algae due to feedback loops. This ecological shift makes it difficult to reverse and has significant implications for coastal ecosystem services.
Visually impaired athletes are at higher risk for sleep disorders due to stress from competition activities and late wake-up times. Researchers found that approximately one-third of respondents had sleep disorders, highlighting the need for strategies to improve relationships and adjust wake-up times.
A study from the University of Tsukuba found that higher spontaneous eye blink rates correlate with improved cognitive function and enhanced executive function in physically fit individuals. The dopaminergic system, involved in physical activity and exercise, plays a crucial role in mediating this link.
Researchers at University of Tsukuba have produced genome sequences of two wild tomato ancestors, Solanum pimpinellifolium and S. lycopersicum var. cerasiforme, which will aid in breeding improved crop varieties with enhanced disease resistance, climate tolerance, and taste.
This special issue of Inter Faculty journal examines how the pandemic has reshaped society, highlighting key findings on resilience, solidarity, and care. Researchers from diverse fields discuss how the Anthropocene era is transforming human relations and society's relationship with nature.
A new study led by the University of Tsukuba and NEI has discovered a brain circuit that allows monkeys to learn context-dependent object values. The researchers found that fast-spiking neurons in the basal ganglia control motor movements, including eye movements, when learning associations between objects and backgrounds.
Researchers at the University of Tsukuba have developed a technique to visualize ultrafast electron motion with sub-nanoscale spatial resolution, enabling the study of semiconductor device operation and potential defect control. This breakthrough may lead to more efficient electronic devices.
Researchers from the University of Tsukuba found that ocean acidification limits algal community diversity and complexity. The study reveals that elevated CO2 levels in oceans harm marine ecosystems, threatening habitats like kelp forests.
Researchers developed a new theoretical model explaining the spread of vibrations in disordered materials, showing that sound waves lose coherence on shorter length scales. This discovery may lead to the design of heat- and shatter-resistant glass for smartphones and tablets.
Researchers discovered a novel mechanism by which mycolic acid-containing bacteria form diverse types of membrane vesicles in response to DNA damage and envelope stress. This finding provides insight into the mechanisms of membrane vesicle formation, which could be helpful for developing novel therapeutics or vaccines.
Researchers at the University of Tsukuba have developed a method to produce acid-resistant catalysts using graphene, improving hydrogen gas production efficiency. The study shows that few layers of graphene allow protons to penetrate during hydrogen evolution reactions, crucial for maximizing efficiency.
A study from the University of Tsukuba found that taking regular walks in forests and greenspaces may help workers cope with stress. The researchers analyzed data from over 6,000 Japanese workers and discovered a significant correlation between forest and greenspace walking habits and strong stress-coping abilities.