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University of Tsukuba


Communication robot for preventing isolation of the elderly

A communication robot is being developed to prevent elderly isolation by facilitating self-disclosure through different communication options. The study found that the most appropriate option depends on the recipient, message content, and sender's gender and personality traits, reducing participants' anxiety in self-disclosure.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalInternational Journal of Social Robotics·DateJun 18, 2023

Increasing effectiveness of home healthcare in Japan

A study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that home healthcare clinics, especially enhanced ones, provide better emergency and end-of-life care than general clinics. This research suggests a shift towards more effective home care support for an aging population in Japan.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateJun 1, 2023

Educational program helps medical students better understand the relationship between health and society

A University of Tsukuba program aims to enhance medical students' comprehension of social determinants of health. Over three years, student reports showed progressive improvement in their ability to focus on various aspects of SDH. This study emphasizes the need for increased integration between medical and social science education.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalBMC Medical Education·DateMay 30, 2023

Microscopic syringes for stressed out strep

Bacteria have found a way to survive stressful environments by producing microscopic syringes called Streptomyces phage tail-like particles (SLPs) that are located inside the cell. These SLPs interact with cellular systems involved in cell wall synthesis and protein translation, providing resistance against osmotic stress.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalmSphere·DateMay 25, 2023

New insights into bacterial antibiotic resistance

A team from the University of Tsukuba has discovered characteristics of proteins in bacteria that convey antibiotic resistance, providing insights into their function and role. These proteins, known as ARE-ABCFs, work in synergy with other resistance mechanisms to convey extremely high levels of antibiotic resistance.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateMay 24, 2023

Growing blood stem cells in the lab to save lives

A team led by Professor Satoshi Yamazaki has established a novel culture system that supports long-term ex vivo expansion of human hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), overcoming previous limitations. The new system, which uses chemically-defined cell culture media, significantly improves HSC growth and proliferation.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalNature·DateMay 24, 2023

Poor healthcare experiences lead caregivers to self-medicate, study shows

A recent study published in Research in Social and Administrative Pharmacy found that about one-third of caregivers self-medicate. Carriers who reported unfavorable healthcare experiences were more likely to take personal care into their own hands. The research team recommends that healthcare professionals should interact with caregive...

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalResearch in Social and Administrative Pharmacy·DateJan 24, 2023

Identifying individuals with debilitating fear of COVID-19 for therapeutic intervention

A study from the University of Tsukuba has established a reliable way to assess the impact of COVID-19 on daily life and mental health. The analysis revealed that approximately one-third of participants experienced moderate or severe psychological distress, while seven out of ten individuals faced problems due to fear of COVID-19.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateJan 19, 2023

Lifestyle adjustments may reduce painful menstrual symptoms, study suggests

A systematic review and meta-analysis found common risk factors for primary dysmenorrhea and premenstrual syndrome, including physical characteristics, menstrual characteristics, and lifestyle factors. Lifestyle changes such as maintaining regular sleep patterns, a healthy BMI, and stress management may help alleviate symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateJan 17, 2023