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Uppsala University


Metal hydrides for high temperature superconductivity

A team of scientists has discovered a general trend in the behavior of metal hydrides ScH3, YH3, and LaH3, finding that superconducting states are strongest when materials are weakest. The researchers also found differences between the three metal hydrides, with a secondary superconducting phase present in YH3 but absent in ScH3 and LaH3.

SourceUppsala University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 27, 2010

Minimal changes alter an enzyme dramatically

A research team at Uppsala University discovered that point mutation can introduce new functions into an enzyme without major structural alterations. This finding may explain the emergence of resistance to toxins in various organisms, including insects, viruses, bacteria, and tumors.

SourceUppsala University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJan 19, 2010

DNA molecules in moss open door to new biotechnology

Scientists from Uppsala University have successfully introduced plasmid-based methods into Physcomitrella moss cells, opening doors to powerful techniques in plant research. This breakthrough enables gene cloning and overexpression directly in plant cells without the need for single-cell organisms like bacteria or yeasts.

SourceUppsala University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 6, 2009

Sex-based prenatal brain differences found

A new study by Uppsala University researchers Elena Jazin and Björn Reinius found that genetic expression in cerebral cortices exhibits sex-based differences, which are thought to be associated with later divergences in brain development. The study suggests that genes on the Y chromosome play a crucial role in these differences.

SourceUppsala University·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateOct 23, 2009

Female choice benefits mothers more than offspring

Researchers found no support for theory that female choice is connected to 'good genes', suggesting females resist mating attempts primarily for their own benefit. Females with increased ability to reject males had higher fitness, while inadvertent selection for male persistence played a minor role.

SourceUppsala University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateOct 22, 2009

Swedish researcher finds missing piece of fossil puzzle

A Swedish researcher has discovered a bony clasper in a primitive fossil fish, completing the picture of placoderm reproduction and providing a 400-million-year pedigree for modern sharks' reproductive biology. The finding sheds light on how sharks reproduce, with the clasper serving as an extension of the pelvic fin.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature·DateJul 13, 2009

Good males are bad fathers

A new study on seed beetles reveals that low genetic quality males are more successful in fertilizing eggs, contrary to predictions. Females' multiple mating does not guarantee the sperm of the highest genetic male.

SourceUppsala University·JournalScience·DateJun 25, 2009

Enzyme necessary for DNA synthesis can also erase DNA

Researchers at Uppsala University have identified a new enzyme necessary for DNA synthesis that can also erase DNA from bacterial chromosomes. By studying Salmonella mutants, they found that this enzyme plays a crucial role in spontaneous gene deletions, which can lead to the reduction of DNA content.

SourceUppsala University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 8, 2009

The life histories of the earliest land animals

Researchers at Uppsala University and colleagues analyze fossil upper arm bones from ancient vertebrates, revealing two distinct life histories. Ichthyostega, a more terrestrial animal, undergoes significant changes in limb shape and muscle attachments as it grows, while Acanthostega remains aquatic with less dramatic transformations.

SourceUppsala University·JournalScience·DateApr 20, 2009

An impossible alloy now possible

Researchers at Uppsala University have successfully formed a substitutional alloy between Cerium and Aluminium under high pressure, defying previous limitations on element compatibility. The discovery opens up possibilities for creating new alloys with unique mechanical, electronic, and magnetic properties.

SourceUppsala University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 26, 2009

Knowledge of genetics improves uncertain medication

Researchers at Uppsala University have developed a model to calculate the appropriate dose of Waran before treatment starts. The study used data from 5,700 subjects across four regions to identify two genes, VKORC1 and CYP2C9, which can predict dosage needs for patients of European, African, and Asian origin.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 19, 2009

Infidelity produces faster sperm

A study by Uppsala University researchers found that females' promiscuity leads to males producing faster and larger sperms. The competition among sperms influences various characteristics, including size and speed.

SourceUppsala University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 19, 2009

Why domestic animals changed coat

A recent study reveals that humans have actively selected for rare genetic mutations to change the coat color of domestic animals, such as pigs and dogs. This process has been ongoing for thousands of years, eliminating alternative explanations for coat color changes within domestic populations.

SourceUppsala University·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateJan 15, 2009

New piece in the jigsaw puzzle of human origins

Researchers at Uppsala University shed new light on the origin of jawed vertebrates by studying the fossilized skull and jaws of Ptomacanthus anglicus, a 410-million-year-old fish. The study reveals a complex relationship between this ancient species and modern jawed vertebrates, including humans.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature·DateJan 15, 2009

New cell division mechanism discovered

Researchers at Uppsala University have identified a novel cell division mechanism in Sulfolobus acidocaldarius, which may provide insights into human cell biology and evolutionary history. The discovery of three genes that form a sharp band between chromosomes suggests a unique process for cell separation.

SourceUppsala University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 28, 2008

Primordial fish had rudimentary fingers

Researchers at Uppsala University used medical x-rays to find rudimentary fingers in the fins of Panderichthys, a transitional animal between fish and tetrapods. This discovery indicates that fingers evolved earlier than previously thought, contradicting the long-held theory that they emerged in tetrapods.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature·DateSep 21, 2008