1. I'm not sure, it could be hardcoded. Searched for it before but couldnt find it. If you do, let me know, i'd like to modify the bars too. Texture is most probably located somewhere in IngameUI.arc. If you want to remove it, you can replace it with transparent one in your mod. I just wanted to change the color of the bars.
2. I recommend Imgur - it has share options to display the image directly in forum threads. Otherwise, just upload your post in any image sharing site, select the link in your message and use the Mona Lisa button (next to Spoiler) to display it as image.