Biologists at Washington University pinpointed cassava's origins to southern border of the Amazon River basin in Brazil using DNA sequencing techniques. The study reveals genetic diversity in wild and domesticated cassava strains, providing insights into crop improvement.
Researchers have found surprising variation in nicotine withdrawal symptoms, with many experiencing intense spikes months after quitting. The study suggests that the duration or pattern of withdrawal symptoms is more difficult to overcome than the initial intensity.
Researchers have found evidence of chlorine emissions in the atmosphere of Io, a Jupiter moon with high volcanic activity. The discovery suggests that salt may be present on Io's surface due to chemical reactions or geological processes.
The study found that only 7% of D.C. residents and 14% of Delaware residents consider themselves part of the South. In contrast, 84% of Texans and 82% of Virginians identify as Southerners. The results suggest a more nuanced understanding of regional identity.
Researchers at AeroMet developed the Lasform process, which builds high-tech titanium components using laser forming and powdered titanium. The process reduces production scrap and time to weeks, ideal for prototype parts and small production runs.
Researchers at Columbia University have found a link between the greenhouse effect and warmer winters in the northern hemisphere. They used a NASA model to suggest that increased greenhouse gases are causing stronger winds to carry warmer air from oceans to continents, leading to colder continental air near the oceans.
Researchers at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center have developed a new endoscopic procedure to remove pituitary gland tumors, reducing trauma and complications. The technique has been refined after an initial animal study identified potential 'glitches' that were later addressed, resulting in improved outcomes for patients.
A Penn State study found that female athletes with poor body image and excessive exercise schedules are more likely to experience menstrual irregularities, including transient infertility. The research highlights the importance of addressing psychological and behavioral factors alongside dietary and exercise habits.
An intelligent microwave oven with a bar-code scanner can cook convenience foods accurately while detecting potential allergens. The system uses detailed bar codes containing information on cooking instructions, crucial for killing bacteria in cook-chill meals.
Spray forming technology uses tiny metallic droplets to create strong aerospace alloys, reducing production costs and increasing strength. This process enables the creation of larger components, benefiting from cost reduction and improved alloy utilisation.
A study by University of Washington researchers found that men and women view sexual abuse cases differently, with women tending to favor the plaintiff. Women's familiarity with sexual and physical abuse also influences their judgments.
Researchers at VistaGen use ES cells to identify drugs that might harm the liver, which could lead to safer pharmaceuticals. The company's scientists have already detected toxins in mouse ES cells and plan to repeat the experiment with human cells.
A new scanning device enables researchers to examine internal characteristics of composite engine parts as they are mended, improving use of composite materials. Initial experiments showed that surface integrity can belie internal damage in graphite fibre-PEEK composites.
Researchers at Kansas State University found that bug zappers can spread microorganisms including viruses, potentially causing harm to humans. The devices may not be effective in controlling insect populations, as they indiscriminately kill beneficial insects and only kill a small percentage of damaging insects.
University of California researchers have successfully created a buckyball device that emits white light, contrary to conventional scientific wisdom. The device, made from a modified buckyball derivative, has extremely low efficiency but could potentially be used for illuminating rooms in the future.
A team of young researchers, mentored by Associate Professor Max Vercruyssen, are developing a computerized driving simulator to evaluate astronaut fitness for space travel. The simulator aims to determine alertness, judgment, and motor skills related to operating an automobile, similar to assessing fitness-for-duty in the space shuttle.
The use of depleted uranium weapons by US and British forces in the Balkans threatens the health of soldiers on both sides, as well as civilians. The radioactive dust created by these weapons can cause cell damage, increase cancer risk, and pose a threat to kidneys.
The 'Edge of Light' scanner uses light reflection to create a high-resolution map of surface topography, detecting deformation between rivets caused by corrosion. This technology has the advantage over existing NDI technology, allowing for non-destructive inspection and potential applications in forensic studies and forgery detection.
Northern Hemisphere winters have warmed by up to nine degrees Fahrenheit over the last 30 years, likely due to human activities increasing greenhouse gases. Warmer winters will bring more wet weather to Europe and Western North America.
Scientists from Boston University's Center for Polymer Studies use modern physics to analyze heartbeats, finding complex multifractal properties in healthy hearts. This discovery could help doctors diagnose cardiac disease more effectively, potentially avoiding the harm caused by medication aimed at eliminating variability.
Researchers find significant changes in Arctic oscillation have influenced temperature and precipitation patterns in the Northern Hemisphere over the last 30 years. The shift could be caused by human-induced climate change and is linked to ozone depletion and greenhouse gas buildup.
A new study reveals that the detailed spectral behavior of solar flares falls into just two categories, suggesting a common mechanism for particle acceleration. The finding could provide insight into how particles are accelerated to high energies in solar flares.