Early Dalmatian farmers specialized in sheep husbandry, demonstrating a common animal economy across the region. Most births were concentrated in winter, indicating an annual agropastoral calendar.
Research reveals liver dysfunction and alterations in the liver-brain axis are key features of Alzheimer's disease. The study highlights the importance of peripheral organs, such as the liver, in understanding the systemic aspects of the disease.
A global study reveals that extractive and industrial development projects harm Indigenous Peoples' lifeways, lands, and rights. The research finds that mining and agriculture sectors most frequently impact Indigenous communities.
The study reveals significant declines in fish species, particularly sharks and rays, linked to human impacts. Archaeological analysis provides insight into lost environments and informs conservation baselines.
Researchers used non-invasive electrical stimulation to modulate signals in the left prefrontal cortex, affecting facial expression predictions. The study showed that stimulation at a frequency of 20 Hz increased brain activity on the same frequency band, modifying behavior.
A study by Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona finds that a hypocaloric diet attenuates brain changes associated with age-associated memory loss. The results show improved spatial object recognition test scores and reduced neuronal loss and inflammatory activity in the hippocampus.
Researchers from Spain, Italy and Norway uncover a cluster of water channel genes in teleosts that allow eggs to float. The study reveals unique mechanisms for hydrating maturing eggs, which determines their buoyancy.
Scientists at Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona have created spherical nanoparticles inspired by amyloid proteins that bind to the SARS-CoV2 spike protein with high affinity, preventing cell infection. The biocompatible and stable nanostructures also show great potency in blocking viral particles.
A new study finds that coccolithophores, a common group of marine phytoplankton, dominate the production of calcium carbonate in the surface ocean. This process controls atmospheric CO2 levels and is crucial for understanding climate change and ocean acidification.
Researchers at Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona solved the structure of a functional amyloid protein, hnRNPDL-2, which forms stable and non-toxic fibres in humans. The discovery changes the concept of disease origin and treatment, suggesting that molecules stabilising or facilitating fibre formation could be the key to therapy.
A UAB researcher discovered a new definition of Petri nets that reconciles two longstanding mathematical approaches, allowing for the reconciliation of geometric and algebraic semantics. This breakthrough has been used in epidemiological modeling, including COVID-19 research.
A new study by ICTA-UAB calls for a biocultural approach in nature conservation, incorporating human perspectives and cultural values. The research team compiled a list of 385 culturally important species that have a recognized role in supporting local identity, providing a common sense of place and belonging.
Researchers found that microplastic mass sequestered in seafloor sediments mimics global plastic production from 1965 to 2016. The study revealed a tripling of microplastics deposited on the seafloor since 2000, with accumulation rates mirroring global use of plastics.
A study reveals that big dynorphin, an endogenous opioid peptide, protects neurons against β-amyloid accumulation. The research suggests that big dynorphin can hinder the interaction between β-amyloid and form aggregates, promoting a neuroprotective effect.
A study by Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona reveals the three-dimensional structure of mammalian genomes is more diverse than previously seen, with different patterns of chromosome folding identified in various species. The research provides new interpretative hypotheses about the plasticity of the genome and its role in evolution.
Researchers found that molecular hydrogen improved neuropathic pain symptoms and related emotional disorders in mice models. The treatment, which targets analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anxiolytic, and antidepressant effects, may offer a more effective and global treatment with fewer side effects.
Leading researchers in ecological economics propose a strategic policy framework to enable wealthy countries to reduce materials and energy while improving social outcomes. The approach, known as degrowth, aims to secure human needs and well-being by abandoning aggregate growth as an objective.
A study found that ocean warming and acidification decrease the nutritional quality of coccolithophores, a crucial food source for zooplankton species. The study's experiment showed an increase in lipid availability under ocean warming but reduced nutritional content under acidification.
A new study finds that transitioning to a low-carbon energy system could lead to significant global emissions, consuming much of the remaining carbon budget. The average emissions associated with decarbonization amount to 195 gigatonnes of CO2, equivalent to 0.1°C of additional global warming.
Scientists have created a magnetic material that can mimic how the brain stores information, allowing for potential breakthroughs in neuromorphic computing. The material enables controlled updating of information without external voltage, opening doors to new logic functions and neural learning emulation.
Researchers discovered that glass can undergo a rapid formation of localized liquid regions with higher mobility, leading to a mixed state where parts are liquid and others are glassy. This finding adds new pieces to the description of the complex glass-liquid transition process.
Researchers at Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona have developed a new therapeutic strategy to tackle endometrial cancer by inhibiting the MAPK kinase ERK5. This inhibition impairs tumor cell proliferation and survival, potentiating the anticancer activity of chemotherapy.
A recently discovered shrine at the Berenike site in Egypt's Eastern desert has provided unprecedented discoveries linked to the presence of the Blemmyes, a nomadic people. The Falcon Shrine contains offerings such as harpoons and cube-shaped statues, as well as a stele with indications related to religious activities.
A new study challenges the notion that capitalism improved human welfare, finding instead that it led to dramatic declines in real wages, human height, and premature mortality. Recovery from this immiseration occurred only recently, coinciding with the rise of progressive social movements.
Researchers found that environments with high walkability and greenness increase physical activity levels. People who spent more time in these areas had the highest levels of moderate and vigorous physical activity.
A study found that exposure to urban greenness has unequal effects on men's and women's mental health, with women benefiting from walking and leisure activities but facing safety concerns. Researchers call for gendered equity in park planning to address these disparities.
A new study suggests that reducing sugar consumption through sugar taxation policies can have significant environmental, social, and economic benefits. Redirecting existing sugar cropland to alternative uses like biofuel production could lead to emissions reductions of up to 54.3 MtCO2e per year.
In a new study, researchers found that microglia cells are responsible for neuronal death in a mitochondrial disease mouse model. Suppressing these cells with the drug Pexidartinib increased life expectancy and reduced motor problems. Further research is needed to understand the specific process by which microglia attack neurons.
A new study by ICTA-UAB reveals that existing climate mitigation scenarios perpetuate energy use inequalities between the Global North and South. To stop climate change, the Global North must reduce its energy consumption to sustainable levels while allowing for sufficient growth in energy use in the rest of the world.
A recent study by ICTA-UAB researchers found that the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a shift in public expectations, with many citizens becoming more pessimistic about future climate action. However, some respondents expressed positive views on the impact of COVID-19 on consumption habits and environmental awareness.
A new article in BioScience argues that incremental changes are insufficient to address planetary emergencies, and calls for broader system-wide changes to governing interactions between climate, biodiversity, and society. The authors hope their work will inform the setting of biodiversity objectives and targets.
A UAB research team successfully monitored microplastic behavior in Drosophila larvae, revealing interactions with microbiota and intestinal barrier. The study confirms the fly's relevance as a model for studying nanoplastic effects on human health.
Researchers analyze viral video of musicians covering Michael Jackson song to understand how it alleviated collective grief during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study identifies key traits that allow empathy and resilience in the face of trauma, highlighting the value of music as a non-pharmacological strategy.
A recent study published in PeerJ found that excessive sports training can lead to lower mood states and reduced heart rate variability. The research, conducted on amateur road cyclists, suggests that monitoring training intensity and recovery is essential for athletes' well-being.
A study by UAB and University of Kent researchers found that the 3D structure of male germ cells plays a key role in determining genome evolution. Genome rearrangements were associated with DNA damage locations in spermatids, suggesting that males have a unique impact on genome evolution.
Researchers at Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona developed a new treatment that reduces chronic inflammation in multiple sclerosis mice models by administering Maresin-1, a lipid mediator. The substance significantly reduced cytokine levels and protected neurons from demyelination.
A study of ancient shell remains found at El Mazo cave site reveals that prehistoric humans in Europe adapted to a 1,500-year cold period by exploiting different mollusc species and avoiding overfishing. This research provides insights into human responses to climate change and its impacts on marine environments.
High-income nations, driven by US and EU, exceed sustainable resource use thresholds by 74% globally. China ranks second in global excess material use, while low- and middle-income countries account for only 8%. Researchers call for transformative post-growth approaches to mitigate ecological breakdown.
Researchers developed a new tooth whitening treatment using synchrotron light, showing improved application time needed, efficiency, and safety. The treatment, which uses reduction via metabisulfite, promotes lower concentrations and shorter application times, reducing side effects.
Researchers have identified a biomarker, TDP-43, detectable in small skin samples of patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), allowing for potentially easier diagnosis and early detection. The presence of this protein in the skin of ALS patients is associated with an increased number of fibroblasts with disease marks.
A study by Jason Hickel reveals that the global North appropriates vast resources and labor from the global South through price differentials in international trade, resulting in a net drain of $10.8 trillion in 2015. This unsustainable practice perpetuates global inequality and ecological breakdown.
The study highlights the need to analyze molecular markers, such as genetic sequences or brain proteins, to obtain more accurate assays, diagnoses and therapies. The results show changes in astrocytes attempting to adapt to toxic environments from the disease, worsening its progression.
Researchers from UAB and UCL propose using the Earth-Moon System as a natural gravitational wave detector, capable of detecting signals from the early universe. By analyzing minute deviations in the Moon's orbit, they aim to uncover secrets about the cosmos.
Local communities worldwide report a significant decrease in wild edible plant and mushroom abundance, impacting their nutrition and food security. The study highlights the importance of considering local geographic and socio-cultural contexts to develop strategies for counteracting these changes.
Scientists have developed a new approach to mimic synapse functions using magneto-ionics, which drastically decreases power consumption. The study reveals that thinner films of cobalt oxide exhibit faster magnetization generation and can emulate 'learning' and 'forgetting' functionalities.
A new species of titanosaur dinosaur, Abditosaurus kuehnei, has been discovered in the Pyrenees with a semiarticulated 70.5-million-year-old skeleton being the most complete specimen found so far in Europe. The species is estimated to be 17.5 meters long and 14,000 kg heavy, representing a senescent individual.
The study behind PopHumanVar explores how human genomes have adapted to environmental pressures and dietary changes throughout history. The database allows for the identification of specific mutations responsible for adaptive events, such as lactose digestion in European populations.
A study by ICTA-UAB suggests that microplastic levels in the Mediterranean Sea are likely higher than previously estimated due to the limitations of current sampling methods. The researchers emphasize the need for a common framework to compare results and combine methods to better understand the distribution and impacts of microplastics.
Researchers discovered that ERK5 inhibitors activate endoplasmic reticulum stress and UPR in tumor cells, leading to a toxic form of autophagy that causes apoptosis, potentially improving cancer treatment. This finding opens a promising new line for the improvement of chemotherapy and more effective strategies against cancer.
A study found that a sea level drop 2,000 years ago caused the decline of Sambaqui society, forcing groups to disperse into smaller social units. The remaining populations intensified fishing, exploiting high-trophic level species.