A new study suggests that the fin whale population in the Mediterranean Sea is smaller and more limited in distribution than previously estimated. The research highlights the impact of human activity on the species' survival, including collisions with merchant vessels and noise pollution.
Deer hinds in dominant positions select nutrient-rich foods, outperforming subordinates with lower-quality options. The study demonstrates preferential access to high-energy food sources, improving body condition and milk production.
Researchers at Polytechnic University of Catalonia developed an algorithm using Japanese tree frogs' calling behavior to solve the graph coloring problem, ensuring efficient color assignment in wireless networks. The new approach enables optimizing WiFi connections and improving energy efficiency.
The Iberian wolf's distribution in Galicia is primarily driven by landscape characteristics offering refuge from humans. Landscape attributes account for 48% of animal safety, while human presence and food availability contribute to a lesser extent.
Researchers have developed a simple, low-cost method to synthesize silver nanoparticles using strawberry tree leaf extract. The technique allows for control over nanoparticle size and geometry, resulting in stable particles that remain effective for up to 6 months.
Cyanobacteria populations are increasing globally due to global warming, producing more toxins that harm humans and the environment. In Spain, toxic cyanobacteria blooms in wetlands have been linked to high mortality rates among wildlife and potential human health risks.
A new method for calculating seismic risk incorporates social factors like crime rates and healthcare, providing a more accurate assessment of urban areas. The approach, developed by Spanish scientists, uses fuzzy logic theory to incorporate qualitative information from expert opinions.
A new study estimates that replacing car journeys with walking for short trips could save 108 men's and 79 women's lives annually in Catalonia. This would also bring economic benefits of over €200 million, with annual savings of more than €200 million.
A study by the Rey Juan Carlos University found that objective corruption data for Spain is higher in politics than administrative-official institutions, but Spaniards perceive corruption as a major issue. The researchers attribute this discrepancy to cultural and institutional factors.
Research in Spain finds low correlation between immigrant population and crime, with education and language playing key roles. Young men from immigrant populations are more likely to commit crimes.
Researchers used mathematical algorithms to determine that drivers should pay more attention during the shortest lifetime of spatio-temporal correlations of traffic intensity, found to be between 6pm and 8pm. This period experiences high 'stop and go' phenomena, requiring constant driver attention.
A study of 1,978 Spanish adolescents found that those who ate more frequently had lower accumulated fat rates, regardless of physical activity. Eating breakfast daily was particularly beneficial for young men who did not exercise.
A new study analyzing 27 complete human limb bones found in Atapuerca (Burgos, Spain) has estimated the height of various species of the Pleistocene era. The reconstruction suggests that Homo heidelbergensis, like Neanderthals, were similar in height to the current population of the Mediterranean.
A study of 1216 babies found that those born to mothers who smoked during pregnancy weighed and measured less, with lower body mass index. The results highlight a significant difference in body composition between babies born to smoking and non-smoking mothers.
Researchers at UAB discovered newborn twin girls' remains in Olèrdola archaeological site, providing first documented case of prehistoric twins. The discovery offers insights into child burial practices and socio-cultural relationships during the Iberian Age.
Researchers have discovered that Arctic bacteria can produce biosignatures linked to biological activity, which could be indicative of microorganisms on Europa. The study found needle-shaped sulphur crystals and organic compounds in the environment, sparking hopes of finding life beneath Europa's icy crust.
A study of over 11,000 university students found that adhering to the Mediterranean diet increased scores on quality of life questionnaires, particularly for physical well-being. The diet's emphasis on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats was associated with better mental health outcomes.
The study reveals a prevalence of 70.4% for contraceptive use during the first sexual encounter among Spanish women, with notable differences observed between regions and socio-economic groups. Factors such as education level and geographical location significantly impact contraceptive use in this context.
A new invasive species of sea crab, Dyspanopeus sayi, has established itself in the Western Mediterranean Coast, particularly in the Ebro Delta. The crabs are well-established and reproducing in the area without problems, with both sexes captured along with ovigerous females carrying eggs.
Scientists develop a technique to measure internal cell temperatures without altering cellular metabolism, opening doors for studying metastasis and differentiating healthy from cancerous cells. The 'fluorescence polarisation anisotropy' method uses green fluorescent proteins to provide non-invasive temperature readings.
A study found that 5% of workers quit smoking after the anti-tobacco law took effect, with a decrease in consumption and exposure to environmental tobacco smoke. The law's strictness is credited with the reduction, with catering workers also benefiting from the ban.
A study published in Comunicación y Sociedad found that consumption of political information is linked to more moderate and positive opinions about politics and politicians. The study showed that scientists are the most trusted profession, while politicians are the least.
Researchers from the University of Almería have developed a system to analyse substances quickly and precisely, detecting five veterinary drugs in milk powder and ten in meat products. The 'multi-residue' method allows several drugs to be detected at a time, using chromatographic techniques and mass spectrometry.
A team from CREAF has analysed the ages of famous olive trees and found one that is 627 years old, much younger than previously thought. This study used classic dendrochronology methods and can also be useful for reconstructing climatic conditions.
Researchers used LIDAR technology to track the volcanic ash cloud's movement and composition, revealing a mix of fine and thick particles. The study aimed to improve air navigation safety and provide valuable data for crisis management.
The loss of elephants and rhinoceroses in tropical forests puts structural integrity at risk, while Asian tapirs are found inadequate for seed dispersal. The study highlights the importance of protecting megafauna and reintroducing them into areas where they have disappeared.
Researchers at Polytechnic University of Valencia analyze the use of color in modern architecture, identifying four concepts: transformation, fragmentation, movement, and innovation. Chromatic versatility transforms buildings through changing appearance and perception.
A study published in Weather journal has reconstructed past climate events in Iraq and Syria using ancient Arabic records. The research team found a high number of cold waves, droughts, and floods between 816-1009, with temperatures dropping as low as 18°C in July 920.
A recent study has found that healthy emmetropic women have wider pupil diameters than men. The research analyzed anatomical indexes in a large sample of 379 emmetropic subjects, revealing differences between gender.
Researchers detected eight high-trophic level marine fish in commercial aquaculture feed, including Peruvian anchoveta and Pacific cod. The study suggests that aquaculture contributes to overfishing by feeding farm fish with wild species.
Researchers have discovered evidence of humans consuming elephant meat and bone marrow in the Middle Palaeolithic site of Preresa, Madrid. The findings, published in the Journal of Archaeological Science, suggest that the practice was not as common as previously thought due to the difficulty of extracting marrow from bones.
A new study of over 3,000 pregnant women finds that obesity and extreme slimness are associated with increased risks of complications during pregnancy, labour, and birth. Underweight women also face specific health challenges, including oligohydramnios and low birth weight.
Researchers from Complutense University of Madrid have mathematically shown that particles in magnetic fields can escape into infinity, never stopping. The phenomenon occurs under specific conditions, including the presence of current loops on the same plane and a large radius for the spherical surface.
The study reveals that roads cause significant harm to midwife toad and palmate newt populations in Asturia, Spain. The results suggest that traffic alleviation measures can help protect the newts but are insufficient for the midwife toads.
A study of 1,939 elderly people in Spain found that 62.3% of men and 37.4% of women are sexually active, with common practices including kisses, caresses, and vaginal penetration. Factors limiting sexual activity include physical illness, widowerhood, age, education level, and health perception.
Eating commercial baked goods and fast food is linked to a 51% increased risk of developing depression. Those consuming the most fast food have a greater chance of being single, less active, and having poor dieting habits.
A study by Spanish researchers confirms ticks' ability to adapt to climate, posing a risk to public health and animal conservation. The parasites carry exotic illnesses and increase the prevalence of endemic pathogens, especially in arid environments.
A newly discovered fossil species of scops owl found in Madeira reveals that its extinction was linked to human arrival and habitat destruction. The findings suggest that human introduction led to disease transmission, invasive species, and habitat loss, contributing to the bird's demise.
A study by Complutense University of Madrid found that Spanish public television began to portray republicans as brave combatants in the final years of Franco's regime. The researchers analyzed TVE archives and concluded that the topic of peace replaced war, highlighting a shift in how the Civil War was portrayed on TV.
Scientists have developed a new method for studying selenium metabolism in living organisms, which could help clarify the element's potential anti-tumor properties. The technique uses enriched stable isotopes to track selenium concentrations in biological tissues and fluids, revealing its presence and behavior in the body.
The Asian fly species Drosophila suzukii is taking over European fruit, particularly cherries and red fruits, causing significant damages to crops. The study found that the fly can lay eggs in unaffected fruit, leading to destruction of the fruit by its larvae.
The study, published in Geological Magazine, reveals that Aragosaurus ischiaticus, found in Teruel, Spain, is the oldest of its kind and could be a common ancestor. Its new age means it fills the gap in the transitional period between Jurassic and Cretaceous periods.
Researchers at the Neuroscience Institute of Alicante have discovered that manipulating CB2 receptors can reduce impulsive behavior in mice with high impulsivity levels. The study suggests that future clinical trials could utilize drugs selectively targeting CB2 to modulate impulsivity without psychoactive effects.
A new training program has been developed to improve the physical fitness of elite football players, resulting in increased oxygen intake, improved jumping ability, and faster sprints. The study, published in the Journal of Sports Medicine, shows a 8.6% increase in oxygen intake after just 8 weeks of intense training.
A study found that 75.94% of deceptive ads linked to health were in the 'health' category, followed by 'beauty and hygiene'. Researchers claim most provisions are not fulfilled, including banned practices like fictitious doctor interviews.
Researchers have detected high concentrations of arsenic, silver, lead, antimony, zinc, and uranium in the hydrothermal deposits of La Selva geothermal system. The groundwater in some areas has arsenic levels of up to 0.069 mg/l, far exceeding the recommended WHO limit of 0.01 mg/l.
A study in Spain reveals that job insecurity negatively impacts work performance and overall satisfaction in personal and professional lives. The impact varies across occupational groups, with blue-collar workers exhibiting the most significant dissatisfaction.
Researchers have discovered toxic aldehydes in food oils, including sunflower oil, which can be harmful when heated. The study found that these compounds are present even after cooking, posing a risk to human health.
A mathematical model developed by researchers at the University of Vigo has confirmed that hórreos with slotted floors are more efficient in regulating temperature and ventilation. This traditional Galician dry-store structure was found to better preserve corn stored inside due to its ability to ventilate and regulate temperature.
A study found that referees' stress tolerance is not linked to their physical condition but rather to the state of their nervous system. Researchers observed significant stress levels in referees both before and after matches, including during sleep hours.