Scientists discover that smaller tectonic structures near larger faults in southeast Spain partially offset the risk of earthquakes, reducing seismic activity. By studying fossils and geological data, researchers found that these small faults help relax energy associated with plate convergence.
A new study by a European research team has found that obese people have high levels of the molecule CXCL5, produced by fatty tissue cells. This discovery could lead to an experimental treatment aimed at inhibiting the action of CXCL5 to protect against type 2 diabetes.
Researchers found that flax can produce up to 0.3 kg of ethanol per kg of dry biomass, but its overall environmental impact is lower than Brassica carinata. Bioethanol from these sources can help mitigate climate change and reduce greenhouse gases.
A new study reveals that a high score on the 'scale of craving' and an antisocial personality type are major contributors to relapse in cocaine users. The researchers analyzed 38 patients seeking treatment for cocaine abuse, finding impulsiveness and desire for new sensations also linked to substance use.
The Spanish biotechnology industry should focus on the food and plant sectors to remain competitive. However, a study found that these sectors have less clout than English-speaking countries due to limited research and development investment. The sector's growth is hindered by high costs of developing new medicines.
A Spanish study detects counterfeit euros using optical mouse sensors, with 79% of 2008 European coins found to be two-euro coins. The system compares images captured by the sensor with reference images from genuine coins, allowing for accurate detection.
A team of mathematicians has developed a method to design underground lines that bypass historical monuments, minimizing economic loss and ensuring safe distances. The study applies Voronoi diagrams to create optimized routes, offering non-disruptive solutions for the construction of line 2 in Seville.
Researchers from Spain found that people are willing to pay more for breakfast biscuits with detailed nutritional labels compared to those with minimal information. The study analyzed 400 personal interviews and concluded that brand impact plays a significant role in influencing consumer choices.
Researchers developed a protocol to distort internet search engine user profiles, preserving privacy from profiling and data exploitation. The new system offers an improvement in response time while delaying searches slightly.
Spanish researchers found the last European hadrosaurs in the Iberian Peninsula, coexisting with evolved species and primitive members. The fossils, including a newly discovered lambeosaurine, suggest a connection between Asia and Europe during the Late Cretaceous period.
Researchers found significant differences in heavy metal accumulation depending on mushroom species, with Chanterelles having high levels of lead and neodymium. The study suggests that the type of substrate plays a crucial role in metal accumulation, highlighting the need for further research into edible mushrooms
Researchers have confirmed that the Greater Noctule bat (Nyctalus lasiopterus) inhabited northeastern Spain during the Late Pleistocene period. The discovery of fossils at the Abríc Romaní site in Barcelona sheds light on the species' wider geographical range, which has declined due to vegetation reduction.
A European study found that 1,088 women (10% of the sample) use longer-lasting IUDs as their primary long-acting reversible contraceptive method. Women over 30 who do not want more children and are looking for a long-term solution are most likely to use this method.
Darwin's private correspondence and notebooks reveal a detailed understanding of evolutionary processes underlying biodiversity. Despite mentioning 'Creator' in The Origin of Species, Darwin was troubled by the origin of life problem and had an advanced idea on its solution.
A Spanish researcher analyzed wolf feces and found that 62.8% of prey was roe deer, while domestic sheep and goats only made up 7.7% and 2.9%, respectively. The study suggests that wolves do not prioritize easily available prey like domestic animals.
A new system identifies common patterns in song versions, allowing for the analysis of musical similarities and potential applications in various fields. The technique, appearing in New Journal of Physics, uses mathematical equations to quantify cross recurrences between two songs.
Researchers analyzed Y chromosome DNA from human remains on the Canary Islands to determine the origin and evolution of paternal lineages. They found a North African origin for these lineages, which declined due to European colonization and the African slave trade.
A new study by the Spanish Foundation for Science and Technology found that adolescents' perception of family functioning is no longer decisive. Family structure is no longer a determining factor in an adolescent's perception of proper family function.
Researchers tracked the migration of 11 Eleonora's falcons, discovering they cross the Sahara Desert and Equator during day and night. The birds fly over 9,500km from Balearic Islands to Madagascar before returning to Europe via a different route.
A team of engineers from the University of Almería has developed a methodology to help meet the EU objective of cutting road deaths by 50% between 2000 and 2010. The researchers have calculated weighted coefficients for reducing accident rates in various geographical areas, using an inverse logarithmic formula.
Researchers have identified a receptor on the tongue that is specifically activated by glutamate, a non-essential amino acid found in many foods. This discovery sheds new light on the umami taste and challenges existing perceptions of MSG's safety.
A team of researchers developed a technique to replicate biological structures on a nano scale, creating free-standing replicas of fragile, laminar, chitinous biotemplates. The resulting biomaterial could be used for optically active structures, such as optical diffusers for solar panels and devices with light-emitting properties.
Researchers at the University of Santiago de Compostela have developed a new technique to accurately measure vitamin C in fruit juices and soft drinks. The study found that only two out of 17 samples matched their labels, revealing higher levels of natural vitamin C in other drinks.
A recent study found that only one species of seabird, the European storm petrel, is severely impacted by cohabitation with invasive black rats on Mediterranean islands. The presence of rats has led to a 68% risk of extinction for procellariiforme seabirds.
A study in Nutritional Neuroscience reveals that breast milk contains day-specific ingredients that promote restfulness and sleep. The researchers found that the highest concentrations of sleep-inducing nucleotides were present in nighttime samples collected from 30 women over a 24-hour period.
A recent study confirms radon gas is the second leading cause of lung cancer, after smoking, in Spain and Romania. Radon levels were found to be a significant risk factor for lung cancer in homes, particularly in granite areas.
A team of researchers has developed a scintillating bolometer, a device that detects light and heat produced by dark matter particles. The device was tested at the Canfranc Underground Laboratory in Spain and performed excellently, proving its viability as a detector for dark matter.
Researchers have developed a new device to measure plant species' flammability, allowing for improved fire risk maps. The technique measures combustion speed and heat emitted during burning, providing more accurate data than existing methods.
Researchers have found that transhumant sheep farming is crucial for griffon vulture conservation, as it provides an important trophic resource. The study shows that the presence of transhumant cattle in mountain passes gives vultures access to up to six times more food than local livestock.
A team of researchers developed an intelligent surveillance system to detect incorrect behavior by drivers and pedestrians crossing pedestrian crossings. The system, based on multi-agent artificial intelligence, can identify abnormal movements and potentially penalize such behaviors.
Researchers developed a model to diagnose postnatal depression with an 80% predictive power, identifying risk factors such as social support and family history. The study also uncovered two protection factors: age and work during pregnancy, which reduce the risk of depression.
A new study found that 5% of Spanish waiters have stopped smoking, and those who continue to smoke consume fewer cigarettes. The law banning smoking in public places has significantly reduced nicotine exposure among workers.
A 23-year study by Javier Lobón-Cerviá reveals that environmental conditions, including river flow and temperature, significantly impact trout populations. The research shows that optimal conditions for young trout development are characterized by average river flow and suitable temperatures.
A new biosensor developed by researchers at Rovira i Virgili University can detect extremely low levels of Salmonella typhi, the bacteria that causes typhoid fever, immediately and reliably. The technique uses carbon nanotubes and synthetic DNA fragments to activate an electric signal when they link up with the pathogen.
Wind energy could account for 30% of Spain's overall energy production by 2030, according to a study. The proposal also suggests a mix of solar energy and gas turbines to achieve this goal, while reducing carbon emissions. Additionally, the sector has generated 226% more jobs in the European Union since 2003.
A study analyzing bird persecution in Spain over 14 years reveals a significant decline in direct attacks on wildlife. The drop in hunting activities and increased awareness among urban populations have led to an end in the 'war' against wildlife in southern Europe.
A study found that perennial vegetation cover can indicate desertification processes in semi-arid esparto fields, with a positive correlation between total vegetation cover and soil fertility. This early warning system has potential for management and restoration measures before ecosystem degradation becomes irreversible.
A study found average PM2.5 micro particle levels in European hospitals to be 3.0μg/m3, with half being between 2.0 and 7.0μg/m3. This suggests exposure to environmental tobacco smoke is 'low' across the continent.
A Spanish study reveals that 31% of doctors believe the Internet complicates their relationship with patients, while 96% have been questioned by patients about online information. Doctors recommend websites to almost a third of their patients, but many see the Internet as undermining patient independence and credibility.
Research in Barcelona found that access to motorcycles without a prior exam increased the number of accidents among lightweight motorcycle users. The study, published in the World Health Organization Magazine, shows an increase of 46% in injuries among these users over three years.
Researchers from the Fat Institute and University of Seville found that six wild lupin species have a protein content similar to other legumes, ranging from 23.8% to 33.6%. The study also showed high protein digestibility and a balanced amino acid composition, making them potential sources of quality proteins.
Researchers find that field mice base their diet on holm oak and pine seeds, leading to habitat deterioration and the expansion of scrubland. The study reveals a consistent pattern of seed predation by rodents across different habitats.
Researchers developed an AI-powered system using RFID sensors and mobile devices to remind users of everyday tasks. The system recognizes user actions, assessing activities such as taking keys or leaving home, without modifying daily routines or requiring cameras or microphones.
Researchers found that dolphins tend to perform simple movements at the water surface, similar to how humans use short words in human language. The study, published in Complexity journal, analyzed dolphin behavior patterns and showed that they obey the same law of brevity as human language.
An international team of scientists has discovered an extinct rodent species, Eomyops noeliae, based on fossil tooth remains found in Alborache, Valencia. The new species provides valuable evolutionary and paleoenvironmental information related to this rodent.
Researchers have developed a method to estimate the amount of heat that can be produced by abandoned mine tunnels, providing an alternative source of renewable energy. The geothermal energy from mines can be used for heating, hot water, and even industrial processes, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering CO2 emissions.
Research by José Luis Martín Esquivel reveals inconsistencies between IUCN Red List criteria and the conservation status of species on the Canary Islands. The scientist argues that continental-based thresholds may not be suitable for island ecosystems, leading to over-inclusion of species not at risk.
A study by researchers from four Madrid-based health centres found that family conflict is not a significant factor in the use of psychopharmaceuticals among Spanish women. The results show that 24% of women take antidepressants, with benzodiazepines used by 30.6%, primarily for sleep aid.
Rainfall in Iberian Peninsula to decline due to climate change, with increased frequency in winter and lower amounts in spring-summer. Climate models predict significant changes by middle of 21st century, with varying effects on seasonal distribution patterns.
Researchers at Yale University developed a system to detect human skin vapors, revealing fatty acids as primary attractants for mosquitoes. The technology also enables dogs to identify their owners by detecting unique skin compounds.