The Building Envelope Alliance brings together research institutions, universities, and innovation accelerators to provide integrated access to consulting services, testing, and training. This network aims to simplify innovation tools for designers and industry professionals, bridging the gap between technological development and pract...
Researchers at Eurac Research have discovered the microbial community associated with Ötzi, a 5,300-year-old Copper Age human. The study found that Ötzi's gut flora closely resembles early human populations, and cold-adapted yeasts have persisted on his body for thousands of years, holding potential for industrial applications.
A pre-Columbian Bolivian mummy has been found to harbor the ancient Streptococcus pyogenes bacterium, a pathogen responsible for scarlet fever. The genome of this centuries-old bacterium was reconstructed from its DNA, revealing genetic variants that may no longer exist today.
Researchers tested a user-carried safety device that prolongs survival under snow and gains valuable time for rescue operations. The study found that the device can sustain a buried person with patent airways for over 35 minutes.
The Conservation Soft Box is an airtight, controlled environment case that preserves cultural heritage with minimal maintenance. It achieves similar results to expensive display cases but at a much lower cost, making it accessible to countries with limited resources.
The study analyzes 40 years of avalanche data, showing a significant increase in survival rates from 43.5% to 53.5% and a decrease in rescue time from 45 minutes to 25 minutes.
A Eurac Research study conducted in the terraXcube simulator found that humans can perceive temperature differences as small as 0.92 degrees Celsius. This sensitivity suggests an inherent characteristic of human perception, influencing our thoughts and actions. The study's results have implications for energy sustainability in buildings.
A study conducted by Eurac Research Institute found that cigarette use alters the oral microbiome, leading to an increased risk of periodontitis and cardiovascular disease. Quitting smoking results in a gradual increase in aerobic bacteria, which can lead to improved blood pressure regulation.
Researchers detected Plasmodium falciparum, the deadliest form of malaria, in mummified tissues from Medici family members. The parasite was identified through microscopic and molecular analyses, revealing characteristic ring-shaped structures and Maurer's clefts.
A Eurac Research-led team tested drones' effectiveness in locating and providing first aid to injured people in difficult-to-access terrain. The study found that drone-assisted rescue operations reduced treatment time by 30% and saved critical minutes in cases of traumatic injuries and cardiac arrest.
Scientists have discovered that increasing expression of the RIT2 gene reduces alpha-synuclein accumulation and protects neurons from cell death in Parkinson's disease. This breakthrough offers hope for developing a simpler intervention to reduce risk of the disease.
A new study by Eurac Research confirms negative global trends in mountain areas, with an average decline of 15 days of snow on the ground over 38 years. Snow cover has decreased by 4% globally, with peaks of 20 or more fewer days in Canada's western provinces.
The MedSENS instrument measures body temperature, heart rate, and oxygen saturation from the ear canal using innovative sensors. It has been tested in harsh environments and proven to be easy to use, with its data transmitted wirelessly to other devices.
A study examining ancient calculus samples from skeletal remains in South Tyrol and Trentino discovered previously unknown species of microorganisms. The researchers found that the diversity of oral microbiota decreased significantly over a short period of time, likely due to changes in diet and lifestyle.
A European project developed standard solutions for energy refurbishment, considering various climate zones. These packages include prefabricated façades, decentralized ventilation systems, and smart ceiling fans to reduce energy consumption and improve comfort. Pilot sites showed significant savings and improvements in tenant well-being.
A comprehensive Alpine-wide study published in The Cryosphere shows a significant decline in snow cover over the past five decades. Snow cover is unevenly distributed, with more significant decreases in the Southern Alps, while regional trends vary due to climate change.
A study of 15 South Tyrolean waterways found that extensive pastures increase biodiversity in streams and rivers. Aquatic macroinvertebrates perform more diversified tasks in pastures, with greater species diversity than in woodland and rocky areas.
Eight European cities will receive new district heating networks built with innovative low-temperature technologies, enabling individual customers to produce energy while using it. Researchers will support companies in design, installation, and monitoring, studying new business models.
A study involving over 100 researchers demonstrates that biodiversity enhances pollination and biological pest control, leading to increased crop yields. Higher agricultural biodiversity also reduces the reliance on pesticides, promoting sustainable agriculture.
An international study by Eurac Research has established benchmarks for assessing avalanche victim survival using core temperature and serum potassium levels. The study found that rewarming only results in survival in a small proportion of cases, but provides doctors with reliable indicators to make informed treatment decisions.
The study analyzed human remains from a 1962 burial site in Germany, reconstructing maternal and paternal kinship and determining sex through DNA analysis. The findings indicate transregional contacts and a cultural openness among the Alemannic warriors and their entourage.
The new guidelines aim to standardize data capture in high altitude research, enabling researchers to replicate studies and compare findings. The guidelines provide a structured approach for collecting data on factors such as local conditions, study participants' characteristics, and medical history.
High-altitude exposure affects cardiovascular systems differently for various individuals. Experts recommend maximum altitudes and caution when taking medications. Hiking can have a positive effect on disease progression and psychological well-being for those following guidelines.
Researchers at Eurac Research and Medical University of Innsbruck have identified a new medical entity: isolated high-altitude psychosis. The condition is characterized by psychotic episodes in extreme altitudes, often accompanied by hallucinations and disorientation.
The Carpathian region faces significant threats from poaching and uncontrolled logging, which endanger its biodiversity. Eurac Research experts recommend increasing public awareness and improving law enforcement to combat environmental crimes.