Tokyo Tech Bulletin No. 73 is launched

A novel mixed light field technique that utilizes a mix of ray-controlled ambient lighting with projection mapping (PM) to obtain PM in bright surroundings has been developed by scientists at Tokyo Tech. This innovative technology utilizes a novel kaleidoscope array to achieve ray-controlled lighting and a binary search algorithm for removing ambient lighting from PM targets. It provides an immersive augmented reality experience with applications in various fields.

A new solvatochromic probe could help shed light on the relationship between lipid membrane fluidity and various cellular functions, report scientists at Tokyo Tech and Kyushu University. Thanks to an innovative design, the proposed probe offers remarkable stability, low toxicity, and exceptional fluorescent properties, making it possible to visualize real-time changes in lipid membrane order during complex processes, such as cell division.

A significant amount of solar energy that reaches Earth remains unutilized owing to the scarcity of photosensitive materials capable of responding to light in the near infrared (NIR) region. However, this challenge has been addressed by a recent breakthrough from researchers at Tokyo Tech and National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University. They have developed an innovative Au@Cu₇S₄ yolk@shell photocatalyst, which is responsive to both visible and NIR wavelengths. This photocatalyst has demonstrated remarkable efficiency in solar hydrogen production, achieving an excellent quantum yield under illumination by both visible and NIR light.

Researchers at Tokyo Tech for the first time discovered the selective generation of three types of structural isomers (a set of different nanostructures with an identical chemical composition) of three-dimensional covalent organic frameworks (3D-COFs), emerging nanoporous solids proposed for many applications, creating new freedom for structural and property controls of 3D-COFs.

Ultraviolet-laser processing is a promising technique for developing intricate microstructures, enabling complex alignment of muscle cells, required for building life-like biohybrid actuators, as shown by Tokyo Tech researchers. Compared to traditional complex methods, this innovative technique enables easy and quick fabrication of microstructures with intricate patterns for achieving different muscle cell arrangements, paving the way for biohybrid actuators capable of complex, flexible movements.

New phased-array transmitter design overcomes common problems of CMOS technology in the 300 GHz band, as reported by scientists from Tokyo Tech. Thanks to its remarkable area efficiency, low power consumption, and high data rate, the proposed transmitter could pave the way to many technological applications in the 300 GHz band, including body and cell monitoring, radar, 6G wireless communications, and terahertz sensors.

Neural mechanisms underlying the regulation of thirst and salt appetite upon ingestion, remain unclear. Now, researchers from Tokyo Tech have conducted experiments on genetically engineered mice and found distinct neuronal populations in the brain's parabrachial nucleus that serve as feedback mechanisms to prevent excessive water and salt intake. Their efforts could help better understand several diseases and pave the way to potential treatment strategies.

A movable seawall system, capable of generating sufficient electricity to raise gates and protect ports against tsunamis, has been proposed by researchers from Tokyo Tech. The system has been found feasible in areas prone to Nankai Trough earthquake tsunamis. Additionally, it can generate surplus energy to supply emergency power to ports during power outages that commonly occur in natural disasters. This innovative system integrates disaster prevention with the use of renewable energy.

Antineutrinos generated in nuclear fission can be measured to remotely monitor the operation of nuclear reactors and verify that they are not being used to produce nuclear weapons, report Tokyo Tech scientists. Thanks to a newly developed method, it is now possible to estimate a reactor's operation status, fuel burnup, and fuel composition based entirely on its antineutrino emissions. This technique could contribute massively to nuclear non-proliferation efforts and, in turn, safer nuclear energy.

Spin-orbit torque (SOT), an important phenomenon for developing ultrafast and low-power spintronic devices, can be enhanced through Berry phase monopole engineering at high temperatures, shown in a new study by Tokyo Tech researchers. In this study, the temperature dependence of the intrinsic spin Hall effect of TaSi2 was investigated. The results suggest that Berry phase monopole engineering is an effective strategy for achieving high-temperature SOT spintronic devices.