Peer Reviewed

Households, cars, and factories generate heat, much of which goes to waste. Likewise, the increasing usage of solar panels means heat needs to be stored at large amounts for longer periods of time. Thus, thermal storage is critical for carbon-neurtrality. A collaboration between Tohoku University and Japan Atomic Energy Agency has developed nanosheets of layered manganese dioxide that can store heat even below 100°C.

Researchers from The University of Osaka have identified key genetic mutations linked to extracranial arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), a rare and potentially serious vascular disorder. They have revealed that these mutations activate the RAS/RAF/MEK signaling pathway and that the MAP4K4 gene may drive pathological angiogenesis. This may mean that existing cancer drugs that target the same pathway could be effective for AVM treatment, potentially paving the way for novel therapies.

A new real-time monitoring system captures minute-by-minute changes in toxic metals resulting from traffic pollution. Research indicates that non-exhaust sources, including brake wear, significantly contribute to urban health risks.

Nonlinear quantum dynamics are complicated, but they don’t have to be. A new, real-time simulation may help demystify these unusual dynamics, serving as a guide to develop next-gen quantum devices.

Researchers from The University of Osaka found that a one-time genome editing treatment introducing a gene encoding the glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist Exendin-4, marketed as the weight-loss drug Exenatide, results in sustained secretion of the drug, reduced food intake, and enhanced weight loss in mice. This in vivo genome editing approach provides a potential strategy for treating complex diseases without defined genetic causes, such as heart disease and autoimmune disorders, without the need for frequent medication.

This research introduces a soft, injectable material designed for use in the eye to help protect and support damaged retinal tissue. It offers a gentle, biocompatible way to stabilize the inner eye environment and may assist future treatments like cell therapy and drug release.

Spatial and seasonal variations of polychlorinated biphenyl (CB-153) in the Seto Inland Sea and its response to declines in atmospheric and riverine input

Hyperconjugation between aromatic rings and their side chains to stabilize unpaired electrons

New study explains why too much ultrasound slows chemical reactions

A daily mismatch between temperature and humidity, observed in certain mountain and waterside regions, helps regulate atmospheric dryness. However, this protective effect may weaken under global warming.

Distribution characteristics and transport processes of biodegradable microplastics in the Seto Inland Sea, Japan

Alternative battery technologies are vital for the green transition.

Machine learning potential can create accurate, large-scale models of catalytic activity for a reaction that turns carbon dioxide into a sustainable energy source.

A new way to grow stem cells may help them release more of the signaling proteins they use to repair tissue, potentially improving future treatments.

Cell sheet preparation for use in tissue engineering and regenerative therapies could be significantly improved with the use of thermo-responsive polymer brushes, adjusted in length and density according to specific cell types

Phosphorus forms the backbone of DNA, RNA, and cellular membranes. But scientists have struggled to pinpoint the specific conditions under which phosphorus developed in Earth’s younger years. A research group from Tohoku University has recently unearthed evidence pointing to submarine hydrothermal alteration, which released phosphorus from the rocks into the surrounding seawater, enriching early oceans with this essential nutrient.

Geologists from The University of Hong Kong (HKU) have made a breakthrough in understanding how the Earth’s early continents formed during the Archean time, more than 2.5 billion years ago.

Comparing picosecond and nanosecond lasers usage with a newly developed index

Researchers from SANKEN, The University of Osaka, have revealed a technique for exploiting the catalytic action of hydrogen in platinum to reverse the degradation of magnetization. This method can be used to increase the robustness of next-generation computer chips based on thin magnetic films.

Researchers from The University of Osaka have developed a method to visualize and reconstruct individual urban plants in different seasons using AI and street view images. The novel Seasonal Species-Specific Plant View Index allows urban designers to enhance the ecological sustainability and the well-being of city dwellers by incorporating diverse plant configurations, colors, and seasonality into current and future urban green spaces.

Findings based on efforts in Sera Town, Japan showed the pneumococcal vaccination support program reversed the previously increasing trend in pneumonia mortality rate in the community.

Researchers have explored how artificial intelligence and machine learning are helping scientists identify catalysts for methane pyrolysis, a reaction that produces hydrogen without emitting carbon dioxide.

Operando X-ray spectroscopy is a powerful tool for probing electrocatalyst dynamics—but intense X-ray exposure can distort structural insights. This study reveals flux- and dose-dependent artifact thresholds and proposes practical protocols to ensure accurate, artifact-free measurements.

A new nanoparticle capable of carrying much higher doses of drugs while staying stable for extended periods could make treatments more effective

Barth syndrome is a rare genetic disorder with no known cure. Researchers at Tohoku University examined a new oral drug called MA-5 that could provide life-changing relief to these young patients.

Dietary prebiotics may induce an increase in brain GABA levels through the regulation of gut microbiota, which can be a major point for reducing or even treating these occurrences of certain neurological diseases in individuals.

Ateneo biologists confirm invasive tinfoil barb in Laguna de Bay, warning it could disrupt native fish and harm local ecosystems.

A new self-powered water sensor uses wave energy to monitor pollutants like heavy metals, microplastics, and pesticides—no battery needed.

Inspired by a simple children's toy, a jumping popper toy, researchers have unlocked a key to designing more agile and predictable soft robots. Soft robots, made from flexible materials, hold immense promise for delicate tasks, but their complex movements have been difficult to predict and control, especially dynamic actions like jumping. Now, a team from Keio University and The University of Osaka has published a study in Advanced Robotics Research detailing the physics behind the jump of thin hemispherical shells, a fundamental building block for jumping soft robots.

The high recurrence rate of bladder cancer is often attributed to inadequate tumor visualization and localization. To address this limitation, the Hotliposome group at National Taiwan University has developed a mucoadhesive nanoplatform, HMSN(E)-SH, which selectively targets tumor tissue and enhances imaging precision, supporting the advancement of non-invasive diagnostic strategies.