Researchers at Kyushu University have found that stars in the early universe may have formed from “fluffy” molecular clouds. Using the ALMA telescope to observe the Small Magellanic Cloud—whose environment is similar to the early universe—they observed that about 60% of the observed clouds had the common filamentary structure, while the remaining 40% had a “fluffy” shape. Thes results could provide new insights into the formation of stars in the universe.

Understanding the movement patterns of animals is crucial for analyzing complex behaviors. However, accurately tracking the poses of individuals in crowded and densely populated environments remains a major challenge. Researchers from Doshisha University have developed ‘Virtual Marker Tracking’ (vmTracking), which assigns virtual markers to animals, enabling consistent identification and posture tracking even in crowded environments. Their findings offer a simple, effective solution for tracking multiple animals in complex spaces for precise behavioral studies.

Osaka Metropolitan University researchers have succeeded in establishing a method for producing recycled liquid fertilizer that contains high concentrations of phosphorus.

Oxysterols, molecules derived from cholesterol, play crucial roles in our bodies but can also contribute to various diseases. Now, researchers from Japan have discovered that 25-hydroxycholesterol (25-OHC) triggers a specific type of cell death called ferroptosis in nerve-supporting cells. The study reveals that 25-OHC disrupts cellular protective mechanisms and antioxidant systems. These findings could lead to new diagnostics and treatments for conditions, like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, where elevated 25-OHC levels have been observed.

An interdisciplinary study led by Kyushu University combining political science and psychology shows that individuals who view the world through a "friend or foe" mindset are more likely to perceive outsiders as a threat. They tend to believe more in conspiracy theories, and hold more negative attitudes toward international relations. Researchers hope to contribute insights that lead to more effective conflict management and lasting peace.

Although many neurotech products – based on technologies that measure or alter the brain – are currently marketed to the general public, few regulations cover their development and commercialization. Researchers from Japan have now released an English-language guidebook for neurotech developers that aims to make these technologies safer and more effective. The publication provides step-by-step guidance from planning to testing to consumer support, and should be essential reading for neurotech developers worldwide.

Why have some orchids stopped photosynthesis and become parasites feeding on fungi? Kobe University researchers found that in at least one species the transition may be driven by the opportunity more than by the need to do so.

Ballbots are versatile robotic systems with the ability to move around in all directions. This makes it tricky to control their movement. In a recent study, a team including a researcher from Shibaura Institute of Technology, Japan, has proposed a novel proportional integral derivative controller that, in combination with radial basis function neural network, robustly controls ballbot motion. This technology is expected to find applications in service robots, assistive robots, and delivery robots.