A device has been developed by a research group led by Professor Yoji Kimura of Kansai University to accurately gauge levels of mirth by measuring the vibration of the diaphragm. Laughter is normally conveyed by facial expressions, but it is sometimes difficult to determine whether a laugh is an expression of true pleasure. Placing electrodes on the chest and abdomen to ascertain the vibration of the diaphragm, the group was able to distinguish the amount and type of laughter. Kimura hopes to use the measurements to investigate the effect of laughter on the immune system.