Immune cells called double negative T cells are abundant in the intestine but have been poorly understood till date. In a recent study, researchers from Institute of Science Tokyo report that these cells actually have an indispensable role in suppressing intestinal inflammation. Through cutting-edge microscopy that allows live imaging, the movement and functioning of these cells were visualized for the first time, providing insights into conditions such as Crohn’s disease.

Two distinct stem cell lineages that drive tooth root and alveolar bone formation have been identified by researchers from Science Tokyo. Using genetically modified mice and lineage-tracing techniques, the team shed light on the cell signaling mechanisms guiding differentiation in stem cells in the developing teeth, offering key insights for future regenerative dental therapies.

New research published in Nature Ecology & Evolution sheds light on the timelines and pathways of evolution of fungi, finding evidence of their influence on ancient terrestrial ecosystems. The study, led by researchers from the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) and collaborators, indicates the diversification of fungi hundreds of millions of years before the emergence of land plants.

The question of whether piano timbre can be changed according to a pianist’s intent had not been answered in over 100 years.

Using proprietary non-contact sensors capable of measuring key positions at 1000 fps, we measured key movements when professional pianists played using various timbres.

Data science and psychophysical experiments revealed that timbres intended by pianists were perceived by listeners, regardless of whether they had any piano playing experience.

Sounds produced by keystrokes differing only in specific key movement features were perceived as distinct timbres, thereby identifying a causal relationship between key movement and timbre.

The University of Osaka researchers developed a reinforcement learning framework that lets dialogue systems efficiently learn new words while asking fewer questions. This approach enhances user experience and enables future systems to naturally acquire family-specific nicknames and expressions, becoming more familiar companions in everyday life.