Psychological stress during pregnancy is known to affect birth outcomes, but isolating its effects has been difficult. Researchers found that babies born in Japan immediately after the Fukushima nuclear accident were more likely to be born preterm or with low birth weights. Radiation exposure-related maternal anxieties significantly contributed to the differences in birth outcomes. The findings underscore the importance of clear communication and psychological support for pregnant women during crises to help prevent intergenerational harm.

Colloidal semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) are among the most promising materials for optoelectronic device applications. Now, researchers have unveiled a new class of high-performance photodetectors based on QD superlattices, marking a significant advancement in optoelectronics. By precisely organizing semiconductor QDs into ordered architectures, they achieved enhanced charge transport and device efficiency. This breakthrough establishes a clear pathway for next-generation light-detection technologies, with potential applications in imaging, sensing, and advanced photonic systems.

Butterfly wings were the inspiration behind this new, lightweight lattice structure that doesn’t compromise on sturdiness.

Kyoto, Japan -- Predators don't expect to be preyed upon, and especially not by herbivores such as caterpillars. The slow-moving, leaf-eating larvae may only intend to consume plants, but sometimes tiny creatures making their homes under leaves unwittingly become dinner: cue the mites.

Tiny herbivores can be subject to intraguild predation, or IGP, when larger herbivores accidentally consume them along with a host plant. Vegetarian spider mites are intentionally preyed upon by predatory mites, which climb onto leaves to eat spider mites and to lay eggs in sheltered spots. Adult predatory mites can evade approaching caterpillars, but eggs laid on leaves cannot escape.

Inspired by their previous finding that spider mites avoid traces left by large caterpillars, a team of researchers at Kyoto University investigated whether female predatory mites avoid caterpillar traces when laying their eggs. While other previous research has shown that some predators avoid counterattacks by herbivores, there are few reports of predators evading large herbivores to avoid being accidentally eaten.

Researchers at The University of Osaka developed an eight-week training program that teaches CBT by encouraging graduate students to apply CBT techniques to their own experiences and reflect on the process. In a preliminary study of 29 trainees, the program showed high satisfaction, low adverse events, and perceived benefits in CBT understanding, self-awareness, and reflective skills. The approach may provide a promising new model for training mental health professionals.Researchers at The University of Osaka developed an eight-week training program that teaches CBT by encouraging graduate students to apply CBT techniques to their own experiences and reflect on the process. In a preliminary study of 29 trainees, the program showed high satisfaction, low adverse events, and perceived benefits in CBT understanding, self-awareness, and reflective skills. The approach may provide a promising new model for training mental health professionals.