Masaya Yamamoto | Plasticity | Research Excellence Award

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Dr. Masaya Yamamoto | Plasticity | Research Excellence Award

Molecular Neuroscience Systems, Laboratory Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University | Japan

Masaya Yamamoto is a molecular neuroscientist whose research centers on understanding how astrocytes regulate learning, memory, and cognitive resilience. His work spans astrocyte biology, synaptic plasticity, neurodegeneration, and spatiotemporal proteomics, integrating advanced in vivo imaging and molecular approaches to uncover the dynamic roles of glial cells in brain function. He has contributed to four research projects, including one completed investigation on vascular dementia mechanisms and three ongoing studies exploring astrocyte-mediated modulation of neural circuits. His publications in Neurotherapeutics and Cells highlight innovative perspectives on glia–neuron interactions. In his influential review in Cells, he synthesized emerging concepts such as nanoscale calcium microdomains, multisynaptic leaflet signaling, and ensemble-level astrocyte activity, offering a unified framework for how astrocytes actively shape memory processes. His work emphasizes the transition from viewing astrocytes as passive support cells to recognizing them as key computational elements in cognitive regulation. Through proteomic mapping, functional imaging, and mechanistic analysis, Yamamoto’s research advances current understanding of glial contributions to neuroplasticity and their implications for neurodegenerative disorders. His contributions continue to refine theoretical and experimental paradigms in molecular neuroscience, particularly in the context of synaptic modulation and glial pathology.

Profile: ORCID 

Featured Publications 

Yamamoto, M., & Takano, T. (2025). Astrocyte-mediated plasticity: Multi-scale mechanisms linking synaptic dynamics to learning and memory. Cells, 14(24), Article 1936.

Yamamoto, M., Itokazu, T., Uno, H., Maki, T., Shibuya, N., & Yamashita, T. (2025). Anti-RGMa neutralizing antibody ameliorates vascular cognitive impairment in mice. Neurotherapeutics.

Dr. Xia Wu – Mechanics of materials – Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Innovator Awards

Dr. Xia Wu - Mechanics of materials - Best Researcher Award

central south university - China 

Author Profile

SCOPUS 

Early academic pursuits 🎓

Xia Wu’s academic journey in civil engineering began with a bachelor’s degree at central south university, china, from september 2014 to june 2018. her passion for architectural and civil engineering led her to excel academically, earning a master’s degree at the same institution in 2021. now, as a ph.d. candidate in civil engineering, she is delving deeper into the field, conducting advanced research and developing innovative solutions to modern engineering challenges. her academic path has been marked by consistent excellence and dedication.

Professional endeavors 🏢

Xia Wu has continuously sharpened her expertise in civil engineering through her academic and professional journey. her ongoing ph.d. research at central south university reflects her commitment to making valuable contributions to the construction industry. her studies, grounded in both theory and practice, are preparing her to address complex structural engineering issues and contribute to the modernization of infrastructure on both a national and international scale.

Contributions and research focus 🔬

Her research primarily focuses on civil engineering, with special attention to innovative construction methods and sustainable development. xia wu’s work Mechanics of materials emphasizes structural mechanics and architectural engineering, aiming to create durable and eco-friendly infrastructures. she is passionate about integrating cutting-edge technology and methods to improve civil engineering practices, and her research offers practical solutions to current construction challenges.

Accolades and recognition 🏅

Xia Wu’s academic achievements have been recognized through numerous awards and honors. she received the national encouragement scholarship, was named an Mechanics of materials outstanding graduate of henan province, and secured the first prize in the first mechanics competition for college students in henan province. in addition, she earned third prize in the prestigious 11th national zhou peiyuan mechanics competition for college students. these accolades reflect her academic excellence and dedication to her field.

Impact and influence 🌟

Through her research and academic excellence, xia wu has significantly influenced the field of civil engineering. her contributions to structural mechanics and Mechanics of materials sustainable building practices have the potential to shape future construction projects, making them more efficient and environmentally friendly. her work also sets a strong example for aspiring engineers, particularly in china, where infrastructure development is a key component of economic growth.

Legacy and future contributions 🔮

Xia Wu’s future contributions to civil engineering are expected to leave a lasting legacy. as she continues to pursue her ph.d. and refine her research, her work will likely influence the next generation of engineers and contribute to advancements in construction technology and sustainable design. her commitment to the field positions her as a future leader in civil engineering.

Notable Publications 

Damage ratio strength criterion for asphalt mixtures and its application in rutting prediction
Authors: Wu, X., Ding, F., Chen, J., Nie, L., Yu, Z.
Journal: Mechanics of Materials, 2024, 199, 105165

Evaluation of rocking seismic isolation performance of railway tall piers with different energy dissipation devices
Authors: Nie, L., Jiang, L., Zhou, W., Dong, J., Yu, J.
Journal: Structures, 2023, 56, 104923

Seismic performance of railway rocking hollow tall piers under near-fault ground motions
Authors: Nie, L., Jiang, L., Zhou, W., Lai, Z., Feng, Y.
Journal: Soil Dynamics and Earthquake Engineering, 2023, 166, 107774

Damage ratio yield theory for orthotropic metals under the plane stress state
Authors: Wu, X., Ding, F., Xiang, P., Yu, Z.
Journal: Scientia Sinica Technologica, 2023, 53(12), pp. 2101–2114

Damage ratio strength criterion for steel fiber reinforced concrete under multiaxial stresses
Authors: Ding, F.-X., Wu, X., Xiang, P., Yu, Z.-W., Nie, L.-X.
Journal: Engineering Mechanics, 2022, 39(9), pp. 123–132

Distortional buckling analysis of steel-concrete composite box beams considering effect of stud rotational restraint under hogging moment
Authors: Jiang, L.-Z., Nie, L.-X., Zhou, W.-B., Wu, X., Liu, L.-L.
Journal: Journal of Central South University, 2022, 29(9), pp. 3158–3170