Scientists are exploring multi-functional gene-editing technology by analyzing molecular features of Cpf1 and Cas9 proteins. The study reveals the high-resolution structure of these molecular scissors to better understand their working mechanism, including target DNA recognition and cleavage.
A new study reveals how a specific lichen species, Lobaria scrobiculata, changes its reproductive strategy depending on rainfall levels. In dry places, the lichen reproduces with greater intensity and smaller volumes to ensure population persistence.
Scientists at the University of Cambridge and TU Eindhoven develop functional 3D-nanoprinted circuits that can process information along three dimensions. This breakthrough could lead to significant increases in electronic device storage and processing capacities.
A new approach to detecting dyslexia has been developed by associating auditory processing in children with their reading skills. The study found that children who had difficulty processing low-frequency sounds were more likely to have reading problems and may be at risk of developing dyslexia.
A solar flare was recorded by a 17-year-old amateur astronomer, Juan Valderrama y Aguilar, from Madrid on September 10, 1886. The event is the third white-light solar flare in history and marks a significant discovery in solar physics.
Researchers discover two new crustacean species in deep waters off the northwest coast of Spain, both blind and measuring just a few millimeters. The species are distinct despite sharing their lack of eyes, with one belonging to the Photidae family and the other to the Corophiidae family.
Researchers have discovered anomalies in the slow wave activity of mice with cognitive decline similar to Alzheimer's, which may provide new insights into the disease. The study suggests that restoring these waves could potentially be a therapeutic approach.
A recent study found that European countries with high levels of biodiversity, such as Portugal and Slovakia, receive less funding for conservation than expected. The study suggests that the main European directives on conservation focus too much on bird species, leading to an underfunding of other taxonomic groups.
A new extinct bird species, Pyrrhula crassa, has been discovered on Graciosa Island in the Azores archipelago. The species went extinct due to human colonization and introduction of invasive species. Its unique beak morphology suggests it was a large bullfinch species.
Researchers found that brainwaves between conversational partners match each other in a study published in Scientific Reports. This interbrain synchrony may be key to understanding language and social interactions.
Astronomers used novel technique to analyze ETNO orbits, finding clustering of nodes at certain distances from the Sun. The results suggest a planet beyond Pluto, with its orbit potentially interacting with ETNOs.
Researchers have discovered how Cpf1, a new molecular scissor, can act like a GPS to identify its destination in the genome, enabling precise genome modification and repair. The high precision of Cpf1 will improve the use of this technology in repairing genetic damage and other medical applications.
A study by Complutense University of Madrid found that 85% of Spanish schoolchildren eat too much salt, with an average daily intake of 7.8g. The experts recommend reducing salt intake from young age, particularly from processed foods like cured meats and bread.
A study by the University of Zaragoza found Giardia and Cryptosporidium in 55% and 70% of drinking water plants, posing a public health risk despite low concentrations. The pathogens are resistant to chlorination and can trigger diarrheic outbreaks.
Temperatures in the Central Pyrenees have risen by 2.5 °C over the past three decades, with a significant increase since 1970. Spring and summer temperatures have been particularly affected, with hot years doubling and cold years decreasing by half.
The invasive Acacia dealbata species is outcompeting native vegetation in undisturbed areas of the northwest Iberian Peninsula. The study found that natural scrublands can serve as a barrier to slow its spread, but pine forests are more susceptible to its invasion.
A team of scientists found that male and female plovers shift incubation more frequently in response to rising temperatures, increasing cooperation between the sexes. This flexibility in parental care helps birds adapt to changing climates and extreme conditions.
Researchers have created a method to produce P450 enzymes in bacterial cell factories, which are also involved in the biosynthesis of active ingredients used in cancer drugs. The process could facilitate large-scale production of these enzymes, allowing for more efficient treatment of diseases such as cancer and psoriasis.
Scientists from Granada and Almería discover a new species of plant in the Málaga region, previously misclassified as Linaria salzmannii. The plant, Linaria becerrae, has distinct flower characteristics and is found in sandy substrates in the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes natural area.
A study by Spanish researchers found that children of separated parents are twice as likely to develop gastrointestinal, genitourinary, dermatological, and neurological issues. Improper parental handling, including high conflict and lack of co-parenting, is linked to these physical effects.
Grilled and microwaved cooking methods are best for preserving the nutritional properties of mushrooms. Microwaving and grilling improve the antioxidant activity of cooked mushrooms compared to boiling and frying. Grilling also offers additional benefits, including enhanced polyphenol content.
Researchers found that bilingual people's reading strategies are affected by the languages they speak, leading to a different pattern of reading than monolingual speakers. This discovery has implications for clinical and education practice, including diagnosing dyslexia and developing tailored reading strategies.
Researchers at MIT developed a new material inspired by the gelatinous jaw of a sea worm, which can adapt to changing environments. The material exhibits great mechanical resistance and consistency, making it suitable for soft robotics and sensor applications.
Researchers found that tarantulas primarily rely on their anterior lateral eyes to measure distances and navigate. By covering these eyes, the spiders have difficulty determining distance and can become disoriented. The study highlights the crucial role of the lateral eyes in a spider's ability to return to its burrow.
A study published in Scientific Reports found that strawberry extract inhibited the proliferation of breast cancer cells in both in vitro and in vivo models. The extract reduced cell viability, blocked cell division, and inhibited migration, while also stimulating the expression of a gene that suppresses metastasis.
Researchers found that athletes with favorable genetic profiles have lower levels of muscle damage and fatigue during marathons. The study's findings open the door for personalized training based on an individual's genetic makeup.
Researchers propose a smart system to reduce long queues at certain roundabout approaches, using magnetic detection devices under the road surface to activate traffic metering signals. The system can delay and length of vehicle lines up by up to 60% while also reducing pollutant emissions as motorists stop less frequently.
Researchers uncover 16 million-year-old fossils of a small crocodile, Diplocynodon ratelii, which is similar to modern-day caimans. The discovery provides new insights into the early Miocene ecosystem in Catalonia, Spain.
Researchers found that adult male common wall lizards exposed to humans become habituated and hide less, with yellow lizards being the most tolerant. In contrast, red lizards exhibit increased sensitivity to potential attacks, suggesting a relationship between coloration and antipredator response.
Researchers at Silicon Studio developed an algorithm that uses 'ensemble' and survival analysis methods to predict when users will leave a mobile game. The model can automatically adapt to different games and data, enabling companies to understand user needs and design more entertaining games.
A new strain of ranivirus is causing mass mortality in amphibian populations in Serra da Estrela Natural Park, Portugal. The virus also affects fish and reptiles, complicating the situation and requiring urgent optimization of conservation strategies.
Spanish researchers estimated optimal UV radiation exposure times to synthesize vitamin D, highlighting the difficulty of achieving recommended doses in winter months. The study found that, even in sun-rich countries like Spain, excessive exposure times are required during winter to obtain the necessary vitamin D.
Researchers found a new species of worm in an orchard in Jaén, characterized by its penis-less males. The microworms feed on bacteria and are resistant to dehydration due to their second skin.
The first Iberian lynx infected with the pseudorabies virus has been identified, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to protect this endangered species. The study found that the virus can have a negative impact on wild Iberian lynxes under threat of extinction, and researchers suggest vaccination as a potential strategy.
Researchers developed a fluorescent polymer that can detect high levels of mercury in fish, which can lead to reduced fetal growth and placental development. The study found increased mercury levels in swordfish and tuna, with no mercury detected in farmed salmon.
Researchers have discovered a new epigenetic marker, pS10H3, that regulates pain processing in the spinal cord. Blocking this marker may lead to new pain relief therapies for burn victims.
A team of scientists has designed a new display made from natural elements, including luminescent proteins. This technology enables the creation of energy-efficient Bio-displays with low production costs and high image quality, offering an ecological solution to traditional displays' limitations.
A new study analysing toxic components of various wheat varieties reveals that even ancient types can be toxic through specific epitopes. The research identifies potential breeding techniques to develop non-toxic wheat-based products suitable for coeliac patients, aiming to improve their quality of life.
Researchers have developed a technique using microbubbles and ultrasound to deliver drugs directly to the brain, opening the blood-brain barrier. This method shows promise in treating neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.
The Super-Kamiokande detector is equipped with a new computer system to monitor neutrinos from nearby supernovae in real-time. This allows scientists to assess the significance of signals within minutes and issue early warnings to research centers worldwide.
Researchers found that amphibian larvae increase their vegetable consumption during heat waves, leading to a reduction in carnivorous diet effectiveness. This adaptability may become common among species living in continental environments as heat waves intensify due to climate change.
Researchers discovered that bilinguals use distinct neural networks to read languages with phonetic and orthographic correspondence, such as Basque, from those without it, like English. The findings have significant implications for teaching reading to adults and children.
A new study found that p-synephrine ingestion increased the rate of fat oxidation and reduced carbohydrate oxidation during low- to moderate-intensity exercise. This suggests that p-synephrine supplements could be useful in increasing fat burn by up to 7g per hour of exercise.
New calculations suggest the six extreme trans-Neptunian objects, initially used to propose Planet Nine, would have unstable orbits if it exists. The orbits of these objects could escape the Solar System in less than 1.5 billion years.
Researchers observe thousands of Hemiphlebia mirabilis in Australia, revealing a unique mating system and high sperm competition mechanisms. The species displays elaborate abdominal flicking displays, suggesting an advanced courtship behavior.
A team of chemists from the Complutense University of Madrid has developed a simple and low-cost method to measure beer freshness using a polymer sensor and a smartphone app. The results show that the new system is comparable to more sophisticated methods, such as gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry.
A new study finds that 81.75% of transsexual individuals experience physical aggression, while 31.16% face discrimination in the workplace, contributing to mental health concerns like depression and social anxiety.
Berroqueña stone, traditionally used in Madrid's monuments such as El Escorial and Puerta de Alcalá, is proposed for Global Heritage Stone Province status. This recognition would promote trade and employment in rural areas of the Sierra de Guadarrama mountains.
A study on mountain gorillas reveals that their dietary habits contribute to dental wear, which adapts to the available food in their habitat. The analysis of tooth morphology provides valuable information for identifying and age-estimating gorillas, highlighting the importance of conserving their habitat.
Researchers found that marathon runners had higher stiffness indices than sedentary individuals, indicating improved bone quality. The study suggests that endurance running training can modify the mechanical properties of bones, potentially preventing age-related decline in bone mineral density.