Sensory function research

Cognitive and perceptual mechanism of olfaction and gustation（Kobayakawa）

We are working on elucidation of cognition or perception of olfaction and gustation, in daily life, through psychological or psychophysical experiments. And at the same time, we are developing olfactory or gustatory presentation methods for experiments mentioned above.

Development of the haptic interface based on the pulling illusion （Tanabe）

When presented with asymmetric vibrations, humans experience an illusory force, similar to the sensation of being pulled in a particular direction. In order to apply the pulling illusion to haptic interface, we clarify physiological mechanism and optimal parameters for the illusion.

Creation of textures that evoke functions（Teraoka）

Surface of objects have some unevenness. My ROI is function mining on them, and/or make them functional by the surface profiling.

Learning and motor function research

Exploring the role of sleep on memory consolidation and modification related to decision making（Kaida）

We are exploring the role of REM and Non-REM sleep on memory consolidation and modification to understand the functions of memory in human decision making.

Anti-aging for human function research

Anti-aging research for the prevention of brain and cardiovascular diseases（Sugawara, Tarumi, Tomoto）

The goal of our research projects is to understand the physiological and behavioral functions of the aging brain and to identify the modulatory factors that can influence the trajectory of brain aging under normal and pathological conditions. In particular,we are interested in studying the roles of cardiovascular function and physical exercise for improving brain structure, function, and blood flow, with the ultimate goal to prevent or slow brain aging and extend healthy lifespan in older adults.

Anti-aging research for maintaining physical activity levels（Hosono）

The goal of our research is to produce effective support measures for promoting physical activity of older adults and preventing loss of their activities of Daily Living. With an intent to motivate older adults and improve their adherence to physical activity, we are studying relation between physical, psychological, and social cognitive factors to develop a method to induce positive affect of physical activity.