In many parts of the world, forests and peatlands, previously considered to be the largest terrestrial carbon storehouses, are transitioning into super carbon emitters under warming conditions, due to large and frequent wildfires.

Researchers at University of Tsukuba have mathematically elucidated how the presence of crystals and gas bubbles in magma affects the propagation of seismic P-waves. A novel equation was derived to describe the travel of these waves through magma, demonstrating how varying proportions of crystals and bubbles influence wave velocity and waveform characteristics.

Researchers at University of Tsukuba have classified newly certified older adults (aged 65 and over) who have started using long-term care insurance services into five groups based on patterns of physical and cognitive functions, and have clarified the characteristics and prognoses of each group. This achievement is expected to support the evaluation and provision of optimal medical and long-term care services tailored to each group, by helping care recipients and providers better understand the characteristics of those in need of care.

Researchers at University of Tsukuba have developed a novel technique for analyzing neural activity in the brain. This new approach makes it possible to track neuronal signals in freely moving animals for over 99 days—an unprecedented duration. It allows for the integration of data across multiple imaging sessions with high accuracy and is anticipated to become a valuable tool for studying memory mechanisms and the progression of neurological disorders.

Researchers have developed a comprehensive system to identify the diversity of these hard corals using only a sample of surface seawater. This environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding system can successfully detect 83 of the 85 genera of reef-building corals known in Japan, enabling their effective and high-precision monitoring.