Scientists have found a way for pathogenicity islands to detect viruses and eliminate repression, allowing them to transfer virulent genes to other harmless bacteria. This discovery could lead to new treatments for bacterial infections and diseases caused by toxins.
The new superconducting cable can transport up to 110 MVA of electricity, a fivefold increase over conventional copper cables, reducing energy loss by 50-70% and saving significant amounts of CO2 emissions. The technology has the potential to reduce primary energy consumption by 10-15%.
The GEO-PICTURES project combines state-of-the-art satellite communication, navigation, and earth observation to provide accurate optical field observations and tagged position, transferred via satellite-optimized protocols. The platform will be developed in Oslo with several partners and hosted on the CERN campus in Geneva.
Researchers found that migratory birds have smaller brains than resident birds, contrary to the protective brain theory. The study suggests that migrating reduces energetic and cognitive costs, making brain size an adaptation for survival.
The PEGASO project aims to improve coastal management by integrating sea, coast, and marine ecosystems research for effective Integral Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) in the Mediterranean. Researchers will study specific actions to be applied under ICZM, combining data from 11 case studies in Europe.
A scientific study argues that sustainable economic degrowth is both desirable and unavoidable to mitigate climate change and the economic crisis. The study presents diverse proposals for social equity and ecological sustainability, challenging conventional economic thinking.
Archaeologists from Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona discover evidence of modern human presence between 34,000 and 32,000 years ago at Cova Gran site. The study reveals distinct tool-making techniques and materials used by different species, strengthening the hypothesis of no overlap or interaction.
A study by researchers from Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona and Save America's Forests found that the Peruvian Amazon is at risk of a second hydrocarbon boom, with over 70% of the region leased to oil and gas companies. The authors highlight the devastating environmental and social impacts of previous hydrocarbon booms in the area.
The genome sequencing of three parasitoid wasp species offers new insights into the genetic mechanisms of evolution and their importance in controlling agricultural pests. The study identifies key genes responsible for venom production and reveals that these proteins have important physiological effects on host cells.
A computer simulation of protein malfunction related to Alzheimer's disease was created by researchers at Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona and University of Stockholm. The model shows that ApoE4 loses its functional structure in the presence of Amyloid beta, but not ApoE2 and ApoE3 forms.
Children with ADHD exhibit reduced ventral striatum volumes associated with symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsiveness. The study suggests that motivational deficiencies contribute to ADHD's imbalance in attention and hyperactivity levels.
Researchers from Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona found that compound genomes lose essential properties for evolution when complex. The study challenges the 'metabolism first' theory and supports the idea that genetic information stored in nucleotide polymers, like RNA and DNA, is crucial for life to emerge.
Researchers have uncovered a complex heteromeric structure of the essential enzyme PPCDC in yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, composed of non-identical proteins. The discovery sheds new light on CoA biosynthesis and presents potential targets for antifungal therapy.
A new research institute dedicated to the Bronze Age will be established at La Bastida archaeological site in Murcia, Spain. The project aims to shed light on European prehistory and cultural heritage through systematic research and scientific analysis.
UAB researchers discover that genetic mutations cause proteins to separate, leading to malfunctions and toxic aggregates. This finding could explain the onset of various genetic diseases, including conformational disorders.
Researchers propose primate archaeology as a new field to study tool-use in humans and non-humans, integrating methods from both archaeology and primatology. This interdisciplinary approach aims to improve understanding of cognitive evolution and provide valuable data on human and non-human primate behavior.
Researchers from UAB design a device called a dc metamaterial, making objects invisible under certain light by creating a zero magnetic field inside while keeping the exterior field intact. This innovation brings humanity closer to achieving invisibility.
The MELiSSA Pilot Plant, a European Space Agency facility at Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, aims to demonstrate Closed Loop Life Support Systems for long-duration space missions. The plant will integrate technologies to recycle food, water, oxygen, and waste over a 2-year period.
A new genus of hominoid primate, Anoiapithecus brevirostris, has been identified at a site in Spain. The fossil exhibits primitive and derived traits characteristic of great apes, shedding light on the origin of the Hominidae family.
Researchers have successfully generated genetically corrected blood cells from skin cells of Fanconi anemia patients using gene therapy and cell reprogramming techniques. This breakthrough could lead to the development of a new treatment for the disease, which affects the bone marrow and causes a lack of white blood cells.
The study highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to manage the invasion of johnsongrass, which threatens the benefits of GMOs in Argentine soybean cultivation. The authors emphasize the importance of considering policy implications beyond deforestation to protect agro-biodiversity.
Children with childhood obsessive and compulsive symptoms are six times more likely to suffer from an obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) as adults, according to a new study. Researchers analyzed data from the Dunedin Study, which tracked participants' psychological variables from childhood to adulthood.
The Gambia has launched a National Programme to eliminate Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), thanks to the pioneering work of UAB researcher Adriana Kaplan. The programme aims to promote alternative rituals that respect tradition while preventing physical mutilations, and will train health professionals in both Gambia and Spain.
Researchers discovered how invasive ants cooperate to form massive supercolonies, allowing them to expand territory and evade native enemies. The study reveals that these traits develop when populations grow and adapt to new habitats.
Postgraduate students from UAB and UPC will conduct an experiment in microgravity to investigate the behavior of cells involved in drug assimilation. The research aims to improve medical treatments for astronauts and better understand drug mechanisms, with potential applications in diseases like cancer and AIDS.
Researchers created MARGO, a new quantitative tool that reconstructs sea surface temperatures during the Last Glacial Maximum. The study provides more exhaustive data than previous models and helps identify aspects to improve climate modeling, particularly in representing temperature gradients and ocean currents.
Researchers at UAB and CSIC developed a new material with improved thermoelectric properties, reducing thermal conductivity and increasing power efficiency for microchips. The unique structure of the material, composed of silicon and germanium quantum dots, enables efficient cooling and heating of micro-sized circuits.
The study reveals social confrontation between GMO proponents and opponents, with difficulties in defining technical measures for coexistence. Organic farmers face uncertainties in measuring contamination levels and potential damages, leading to reduced cultivation areas.
The SUPERCABLE project will build a 30m superconductor cable with a current value of 3200 Amperes RMS, transporting the electrical strength of 110 MVA. This technology aims to reduce energy consumption by 10-15% and greenhouse gas emissions.
Scientists at UAB have identified a new lung cancer marker, AKR1B10, which can appear even before cancer develops. The enzyme's activity may play a role in the development of lung cancer and could be targeted by future treatments.
A study found Tinea unguium cases increased significantly among children, with 66.6% showing tinea pedis co-infection, highlighting need for proper diagnosis and treatment. Pediatricians should recognize symptoms like onycholysis, nail changes, and environmental factors to accurately diagnose the condition.
Researchers have completed the genomes of ten new fruit fly species, providing a comprehensive understanding of their evolution over 60 million years. The study also identified 1193 new genes and 414 corrected previously catalogued genes across the twelve closely related species.
A recent study has found that our brains respond more rapidly when visualizing two objects that may collide. This challenge traditional understanding of visual perception, which suggests a delay between the moment events occur and when they are perceived.
Researchers found that heat stress, measured by temperature-humidity index (THI), was a significant factor in low conception rates of dairy herds. High THI values before insemination, particularly on Day 3, led to ovulation failure and reduced fertility. Conversely, cooling measures implemented when temperatures exceeded 20°C improved ...
A study by Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona found that the prelimbic prefrontal cortex plays a crucial role in social transmission of food preference. This discovery sheds new light on the functioning of declarative memory, which is affected in Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers have described the function and range of possible mutations of the FANCD2 gene, a key player in Fanconi anemia. The study reveals that FANCD2 patients experience more severe symptoms due to its vital role in genome stability and development, highlighting the need for early diagnosis and treatment.
Scientists at Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona developed a new electro-chemical biosensor that detects pesticides and antibiotics in food with high sensitivity and portability. The sensor can detect levels of atrazine and sulphanilamides below maximum allowed concentrations, making it easier to control food safety.
Researchers at Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona and UNIVET have developed an artificial canine skin model that replicates the characteristics of dog's skin. The model allows for study of skin biology and pathology without using live animals, providing an alternative to traditional research methods.
Two studies suggest that the melting of the Greenland ice cap could significantly affect ocean circulation, leading to substantial changes in global climate. The authors analyze sediment records from past glacial periods, finding that sudden episodes of ice sheet melting may cause abrupt climate instability.
A team of researchers from Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona has identified the mechanism by which cancer cells resist chemotherapy. By understanding this pathway, scientists can develop strategies to make tumours more vulnerable to certain drugs, leading to improved treatment outcomes for patients with cancer.
Inflammatory myopathies and coeliac disease may be linked, with a gluten-free diet potentially improving inclusion-body myositis symptoms. Researchers explore immunopathogenic mechanisms and genetic substrates to confirm findings.
Researchers focus on preventing psychopathological symptoms in pre-school children, with 99% of unaffected children not developing disorders later in life. The study aims to improve prevention and detection of emotional and behavioral disorders among this critical age group.
Researchers analyzed data on consecutive earthquakes to find that seismic activity may affect a larger area than previously believed, potentially supporting long-range earthquake triggering. This phenomenon challenges the traditional view of earthquakes influencing only their immediate rupture zone.
Researchers at CReSA have made significant advances in tests using DNA vaccines on animal models, enabling a delay in symptom appearance and paving the way for human treatment. The vaccine induces a complete immune response, including humoral and cellular responses, overcoming the tolerance barrier faced by prions.
Researchers find that fish and amphibian B cells exhibit strong phagocytosis in both in vivo and vitro experiments. This discovery suggests an evolutionary relationship between macrophages and B cells, with implications for understanding human immune systems.
The MAGIC team discovered variable gamma-ray emission from microquasar LS I +61 303, revealing a direct relationship between the stars' interplay and gamma-ray production. The findings suggest that gamma-ray emission could be a common property of microquasars, contradicting previous expectations.
Scientists have discovered a new magnetic phenomenon, 'displaced vortex states', that can increase the size of MRAMs, allowing for faster and non-volatile memory storage. This breakthrough could lead to improved performance and reduced wait times when turning on computers.
Researchers from the UAB have found a direct relationship between morphine addiction and a tendency to explore perseveringly in rats. The study suggests that individuals with a greater propensity to seek new sensations may be more likely to develop an addiction to morphine.
A UAB research team has discovered a new type of construction in Peru, featuring yards built with stone walls where people worked on agriculture and crafts. The buildings date back to the first millennium BC and have been found to contain evidence of large-scale agricultural processing and craftsmanship.
Scientists from Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona have developed a method to identify precise zones of proteins that cause aggregation, leading to potential therapeutic targets for Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and type 2 diabetes. The new approach may enable the design of more effective drugs by shielding or stabilizing these critical reg...