October 2023 Vol. 21 No. 10

Front-line Researchers

• Takahiro Kawabe, Senior Distinguished Researcher, NTT Communication Science Laboratories

  

  Abstract
  Head-mounted displays for cross reality (XR) have been released by various companies and are gradually gaining popularity. Such XR displays present three-dimensional stereoscopic images that take advantage of the characteristics of the human visual system and give users a greater sense of reality. However, illusions are not just created by sight; they are the result of a combination of sight with other senses, such as hearing and touch. Takahiro Kawabe, a senior distinguished researcher at NTT Communication Science Laboratories, is engaged in research on illusions related to the texture of objects created by the combination of multiple senses. We interviewed him about his research on presenting the texture of objects for touchless user interfaces, the fusion of psychology and engineering, and his attitude as a researcher.

Rising Researchers

• Yuka Hashimoto, Distinguished Researcher, NTT Network Service Systems Laboratories

  

  Abstract
  Current neural networks achieve a high level of accuracy when constructing learning models using large amounts of data, but learning accuracy drops significantly when only a small amount of data can be obtained for learning. Additionally, in the field of automating the operation of current information and communication technology (ICT) systems that detect anomalies beforehand, data analysis is performed under a variety of conditions, so there is a need for analyzing data that behaves in complex ways such as “data with noise” or “mutual interaction between multiple items of data and continuous change.” This time, we talked with NTT Distinguished Researcher Yuka Hashimoto to learn about her research in applying advanced mathematical theories such as C^*-algebra and operator theory to diverse social problems including improving the accuracy of data analysis even with a small amount of data and automating the operation of ICT systems.

Feature Articles: Designing a Future Where Everyone Can Flourish by Sharing Diverse Knowledge and Technologies

• Design a World Where Everyone Can Flourish by Deciphering the Future of Individuals, Society, and the Earth—Communication Science That Connects the Past, Present, and Future through Diverse Knowledge and Technologies

  

  Abstract
  Since its establishment, NTT Communication Science Laboratories (CS Labs) has been engaged in researching basic theories that address the essence of human science and information science and creating innovative technologies that will bring about changes in society to achieve communication that reaches the heart between humans and between humans and computers. This article introduces recent research activities of CS Labs from the perspective of deciphering individuals, society, and the Earth.

• Machine Learning That Reproduces Physical Phenomena from Data

  

  Abstract
  Machine learning has made remarkable progress and has been used successfully in various applications. Our research goal is to use machine learning to simulate physical phenomena. In this article, I introduce machine-learning models that can accurately reproduce physical phenomena from observed data by using prior knowledge of physics. I also discuss the prospects of and value that can be created with this research.

• Understanding Mindful Awareness in Mindfulness Meditation—Investigation of the Psychological, Physiological, and Neural Mechanisms of Mindfulness Meditation

  

  Abstract
  Mindfulness meditation, which is used to cultivate a state of awareness of the experience of the present moment as it is (called mindful awareness), has been shown to contribute to enhancing well-being. There are two types of mindfulness meditation: focused attention meditation and open monitoring meditation. To understand mindful awareness, our group focused on the psychological, physiological, and neural mechanisms of open monitoring meditation thought to be involved in mindful awareness.

• Dilemma between Quantum Speedup and Computational Reliability—Overcoming Errors with Efficient Verification Methods for Quantum Computing

  

  Abstract
  Quantum computers are expected to solve several problems faster than any classical computer. However, they may sometimes output incorrect answers because they are prone to errors. Therefore, to develop reliable quantum computers, it is essential to develop methods of verifying whether the outputs of quantum computers are correct. In this article, we introduce our recent research results on our verification methods.

Global Standardization Activities

• Technical Trends in ISO/IEC Joint Technical Committee 1

  

  Abstract
  The International Organization for Standardization (ISO)/International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) Joint Technical Committee (JTC) 1 is an organization established by ISO and IEC and is responsible for international standardization in the field of information technology. This article introduces the activities being addressed by subgroups directly under JTC 1, which were identified in Resolutions from recent ISO/IEC JTC 1 Plenaries.

Practical Field Information about Telecommunication Technologies

• A Case Study of Malfunction of Wireless Communication System Caused by Electromagnetic Disturbance at a Construction Site

  

  Abstract
  In this article, we explain a case study of a malfunction of a wireless communication system caused by electromagnetic disturbance at a construction site and countermeasures to prevent such a malfunction. This is the seventy-eighth article in a series on telecommunication technologies.

External Awards/Papers Published in Technical Journals and Conference Proceedings

• External Awards/Papers Published in Technical Journals and Conference Proceedings