The Mutriku wave power plant has been in operation since 2011 and generates electricity continuously to the grid. A new study found that while wave energy increases due to climate change, the plant's energy production remains constant due to its regulation system.
The University of the Basque Country's research team has created mortars and concretes with optimal thermal and mechanical efficiency, replacing natural materials with industrial by-products. The new materials have good thermal conductivity and are suitable for use in radiant floor heating systems, reducing CO2 emissions.
Researchers found that graphene oxide can carry polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons into zebrafish, exerting sublethal effects and potentially causing malformations and neurotoxicity. Long-term exposure may lead to inhibition of acetylcholinesterase, a key enzyme in nervous system function.
A new methodology developed by the UPV/EHU helps SME software departments create software services aligned with Industry 4.0, improving customer experience and after-sales support. The methodology uses semantic technologies and 3D visualization to analyze shortcomings and generate new services, enhancing customer loyalty.
The study uses natural language processing to extract adverse effects from Spanish health records, highlighting a major health problem and improving clinical decision making. The system learns more effectively with larger corpora, contributing to closing the gap in clinical text mining across languages.
A study by Jon Zabala found that Basque individuals with strong identity and collective empowerment display high levels of personal and social wellbeing, as well as community participation. The researcher suggests that feeling identified with Basques balances negative aspects of being a linguistic minority.
Researchers from the University of the Basque Country have developed a novel non-destructive analytical strategy to characterize Martian samples. The proposed method utilizes Raman spectroscopy to identify molecular compositions and geochemical properties of unknown samples.
A Basque cheese researcher warns that the decline in grazing practices poses significant threats to the production of Idiazabal cheese. The Lactiker group is working to improve yield while maintaining high quality through various technological and biochemical processes.
The use of immunity passports is a topic of debate, as science is unsure about the duration of immunity and potential risks of reinfection. Experts argue that immunity passports could limit fundamental rights, such as freedom of movement, but also propose respecting the right to move freely for those who cannot spread COVID-19.
Researchers from the University of the Basque Country found that pyroclastic materials protecting Pompeii paintings also cause damage when exposed to air and humidity. The study identified fluorine ions in the salts responsible for damage, suggesting a link between volcanic origin and salt crystallization.
The University of the Basque Country has developed a system using natural language processing techniques to represent sensors and human activity in smart environments. By giving sensors meaningful names, the algorithm can transfer knowledge from one environment to another, overcoming a major challenge in smart homes.
A new diagnostic tool has been developed to predict which cancer patients are most likely to benefit from immunotherapy treatments. The tool analyzes the interactions between immune cells and tumor cells, as well as the activation state of immune checkpoints.
Researchers aim to discover if neutrinos are their own antiparticle, solving the cosmic asymmetry between matter and antimatter. The NEXT-BOLD project will build a new detector capable of detecting barium ions, a key indicator of this discovery.
A recent study by UPV/EHU-University of the Basque Country reveals that women are more likely to be diagnosed with depression and anxiety, with similar mental health statuses, receiving more psychotropic drugs. The research highlights the need for policy intervention to address gender inequalities in mental health.
Researchers from UPV/EHU used spectroscopy to explore how the environment impacts on degradation of new stone construction materials. They discovered that lichens play an active role in biodegradation processes and can be used to measure environmental contamination.
Researchers have designed a multifunctional cell therapy system to treat ulcerative colitis, with encouraging results obtained in animal models. The system incorporates stem cells, biomaterials, and microparticles that release interferon, aiming to improve cell persistence and biosafety.
Research reveals cannabinoids reduce astrocyte glucose metabolism, impairing neuronal function and social interaction behaviors. The study identifies CB1 receptors as key players in this process.
Researchers explored ways to ensure power supply in Spain, considering the scarcity of interconnection with neighboring countries. They found that flexible management of hydropower plants could alleviate supply shortages due to renewable energy's intermittency.
A recent study published in Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews has explored the potential of using catalytic pyrolysis to convert used tyres into alternative fuels. The process produces liquid fuel with aromatic compounds, as well as gas and solid products that can be used for energy production and carbon black reuse.
The study developed a composite material that can be used for regenerating bone tissue, comprising a scaffold made of fibroin and loaded with magnetic nanoparticles. The material stimulates cell growth and differentiation when exposed to a magnetic field, mimicking the cellular microenvironment.
Researchers at UPV/EHU University of the Basque Country discover osteopontin's protective role in preventing early onset of metabolic fatty liver disease. Maintaining physiological levels of osteopontin is essential to delay disease progression during ageing.
A study by the University of the Basque Country analyzed microfossils from 176 species of benthic foraminifera, identifying evidence of climatic events, including cold periods like Younger Dryas and warm intervals like Bolling-Allerod. The research provides insights into the biodiversity of the Bay of Biscay during the Quaternary period.
A new methodological guide developed by the University of the Basque Country aims to optimize radioactive waste management during nuclear facility dismantling. The project focuses on in situ measurements and characterizing strategies for constrained environments, aiming to improve dismantling processes and public perception.
Researchers reviewed the manufacturing methods and applications of hybrid materials made from cellulose nanocrystals. These materials exhibit excellent mechanical, thermal, and physico-chemical properties, making them suitable for various applications, including sensors, catalytic converters, and medical devices.
Researchers analyzed cores from the Basque Mud Patch to determine sedimentation rates and detect environmental contamination. The study found that metals and contaminants accumulate at an approximate rate of one millimeter per year, highlighting human activity's impact on the coastal area.
A 16-year analysis reveals that periods of regulatory uncertainty increase electricity price volatility, regardless of renewable energy's intermittent nature. The study highlights the impact of policy changes and economic crises on market prices.
An ultra-sensitive sensor has been developed to detect the nuclear decay of heavy neutrinos, which could explain the cosmic asymmetry between matter and antimatter. The researchers used a new fluorescent molecule to capture the barium ion produced in the process, providing a clear signal.
Researchers have created the first quantum phase battery, which induces supercurrents in a quantum circuit by providing a persistent phase difference. The battery consists of an indium arsenide nanowire and aluminum superconducting leads.
A study by the University of the Basque Country reveals 12 former coastlines under the sea off the Basque coast, formed due to major climate changes and fluctuations in sea levels. The researchers used advanced technology to create 3D maps of the seabed, showing irregularly distributed rocky platforms that had not been predefined.
A new method for predicting the evolution of melanoma uses the quantification of BRAF-V600E mutation load as a prognostic marker. The study found that patients with lower levels of this mutation in their primary tumours were more likely to develop metastasis, suggesting its potential use as a predictor of progress to metastasis.
A study by the University of the Basque Country found that labour reforms aimed at reducing unemployment had no effect on total employment. Instead, temporary employment increased significantly while permanent employment decreased.
Researchers have collaborated on developing new drugs that can effectively reduce the growth of cysts in the liver and kidneys, offering a promising therapeutic option for this genetic disorder. The drugs, based on the structure of bile acid UDCA, show promise in blocking the growth of cysts in an animal model.
The Cassini spacecraft captured high-resolution images of Saturn's Hexagon, revealing a multilayered haze system with particles as small as 1 micron. The team discovered that the hazes are organized by gravity waves and may be responsible for the hexagon's formation.
The Bay of Biscay has been identified as a hotspot for marine litter, with microplastics found in over 50% of water and sediment samples. The polymers most prevalent are polypropylene, polyethylene, polyester, and polystyrene, often originating from the breaking up of larger objects.
A study of 922 oocytes from obese and overweight women found lower concentrations of omega-3 fatty acids. The findings suggest that poor lipid composition in the ova may contribute to childhood and adult obesity.
A new study by the University of the Basque Country confirms that offshore wind turbines can produce hydrogen fuel with significant increases in energy generation. The research found that adding vortex generators and Gurney flaps to wind turbines improved aerodynamics, resulting in 2.5% higher annual energy production.
A study by the UPV/EHU-University of the Basque Country analyzed the influence of ozone formation precursors in the Valderejo Nature Reserve. The research found that biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) contribute up to 68% of the total VOCs measured, with isoprene and monoterpines being key contributors.
Researchers found that organic substances produced by decomposed vegetation cover on top of caves create the red coloration, which is linked to climate conditions. The study used various analysis techniques to identify these compounds and established a link between the red color and mid-Holocene climate changes.
A study by the UPV/EHU-University of the Basque Country found that microplastics cause mortality in detritivores and reduce tadpole growth. Microplastics also attach to periphyton, altering ecosystem productivity, and are ingested by organisms, highlighting their potential impact on freshwater ecosystems.
Researchers at the University of the Basque Country have developed technology to determine the structure of sugars present in DNA with atomic-level resolution. The study reveals the importance of five-membered ring forms in biological contexts.
A participatory study in Bilbao reveals that the urban environment influences eating behavior, with socioeconomic differences affecting food choices. The study identified six themes, including unhealthy eating behaviors, cultural diversity, and limited involvement of citizens and authorities in improving neighborhoods.
A new study by the ECRI group of the University of the Basque Country uses social accounting to measure the social value generated by Hospital Santa Marina in Bilbao. The analysis reveals a socio-emotional value of around 60 million euros per year, covering aspects such as patient care, staff support and community benefits.
Researchers have discovered that atomic quantum fluctuations stabilize the record-breaking superconductor LaH10, enabling superconductivity at much lower pressures than previously expected. The study reveals a highly symmetric structure with a single minimum energy landscape, contrary to classical predictions, which could lead to high-...
Researchers found that urban sustainability rankings neglect complex causalities and lack transparency in data gathering, weighting, and aggregation processes. The study analyzed 21 similar rankings, indexes, and tools to identify methodological weaknesses and called for caution when using these tools.
A research team at the University of the Basque Country is using genetic analysis to identify human remains from the Spanish Civil War and dictatorship. By comparing DNA samples from remains with those from family members, they are able to determine the profile of the remains and gather enough information to enable identification.
A Spanish study reveals socioeconomic inequalities have a profound effect on the health of the elderly population. Educational attainment and past occupations are key factors in these disparities. Higher educational attainment and adequate pensions may help reduce inequality.
An international team of researchers has predicted and observed the first topological insulator with intrinsic magnetic properties, MnBi2Te4. This discovery opens possibilities for applications in electronics, including faster and low-energy consumption devices.
A study published in Nature Astronomy reveals thousands of new globular clusters have formed over the last billion years, primarily from a cool gas network surrounding giant galaxies. These clusters are thought to be the result of precipitation from hot gas and aging of stars.
Researchers have discovered a complex storm system in Saturn's north polar atmosphere, with features suggesting they are caused by convection in deep water clouds. The storms were found to be long-lived and high-intensity, unlike those on Earth, and appear to have formed at a rate of one every 30-60 years.
Researchers at the University of the Basque Country and Colorado State University have developed a class of biorenewable, biodegradable plastics that promote the circular economy. The new materials have suitable mechanical and barrier properties similar to commercial materials currently used in packaging.