Researchers used refined techniques to study minerals from meteorites, revealing a 20-million-year estimate for the Earth's formation. The new figure is based on careful separation of minerals and isolation of radioactive forms of niobium and zirconium.
Navrotsky's work has pioneered methods to measure the energy needed to form crystal structures, allowing scientists to study minerals deep within the earth. Her research has established the identity of materials at hundreds of kilometers depth, enabling new discoveries in nanogeoscience.
The study found a clear relationship between organic carbon and smectite clay minerals, suggesting that dissolved organic molecules are drawn into the crystal lattice where they are protected from oxidation. This process, known as adsorption, plays a crucial role in maintaining habitable conditions in the biosphere.
A new study published in Journal of Clinical Psychiatry found that a nutritional supplement called EM Power+ can successfully treat bipolar disorder. The supplement, developed by the Synergy Group of Canada, contains natural dietary minerals and vitamins.
Researchers created high-resolution pseudo-images of minerals within basalt and bacterial growth, providing critical information about bacterial metabolism. The technique also creates three-dimensional images, allowing researchers to understand the complex relationships between microbes, minerals, and contaminants.
Geologists at Ohio State University have found a massive 3.5-inch-long cockroach fossil with incredible detail, preserved for millions of years without shell or bones. The ancient site offers insights into the diversity of life and climate changes during the Carboniferous period.
A new database using Geographic Information System (GIS) allows geologists to interpret large amounts of data more easily. The system enables scientists to query and analyze data over a large area in various ways, leading to new insights into the tectonic history of regions. This advancement in science helps understand the Earth's regi...
A study found that consuming cocoa and dark chocolate slowed LDL oxidation by 8% and boosted total antioxidant capacity. However, experts stress the importance of a balanced diet that includes a variety of whole foods to support overall cardiovascular health.
Researchers found that low-energy radio waves can kill zebra mussels by depleting calcium levels in the water, which are essential for their survival. This method is considered an eco-friendly alternative to traditional chemical treatments or molluscicides, and may be effective in preventing pipe clogging.
Researchers study presolar diamond grains found in meteorites and simulate implantation of ions to test mechanism. The results reveal a bimodal release of noble gases with different temperatures, suggesting at least two events involved in the introduction of xenon.
Researchers discovered strontium titanate deforms plastically at low stresses and temperatures, contrary to its brittle nature. Detailed analysis reveals the existence of different dislocation core structures, suggesting potential applications in forming or enhancing ceramic properties.
The Deep Gulf of Mexico Benthos project aims to study the structure and functions of deepsea life forms, with a focus on the ecological impact of offshore oil production. The research team will collect data on ocean floor ecology, including biodiversity, species abundance, and environmental contamination.
Scientists from University of Wisconsin-Madison propose new model for origin of volcanism in young calderas, suggesting high probability of future catastrophic eruption. Tiny crystals of zircon and quartz harbor geochemical clues to past and future volcanic eruptions, including massive explosions that could disrupt global climate.
Dr Vute Sirivivatnanon has won the Mohan Malhotra Award for his work in turning industrial waste into a useful component of concrete. His research resulted in the development of High Slag cement concrete, High Volume Fly Ash concrete and Silica Fume concrete being used in high-profile construction projects.
Researchers find unique vent systems on seafloor mountain Atlantis Massif, formed by heat generated when seawater reacts with mantle rocks. The Lost City Field may be common, potentially upending previous estimates of hydrothermal venting and life on the seafloor.
A new study found that eating one medium-sized persimmon per day can help reduce the risk of heart disease by fighting atherosclerosis. Persimmons contain significantly higher levels of dietary fiber, minerals, and phenolic compounds than apples.
Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis found evidence that hot and dry Venus could have had water in its past due to the chemical stability of tremolite at extreme temperatures. This discovery could help scientists determine if they should investigate hydrous minerals on Venus.
Purdue University researchers found that sea salt and sunlight interact to destroy ozone in the Arctic troposphere. The study suggests a naturally occurring process that may impact air quality in urban areas.
Researchers from UCLA and Curtin University of Technology found ancient zircons in a rock that suggest liquid water existed on Earth's surface around 4.3 billion years ago. This discovery supports the idea that the conditions for life were met early on, possibly allowing for the emergence of life as early as 4.3 billion years ago.
Researchers can detect regional groundwater flow paths in the Eastern Snake River Plain aquifer using radiogenic isotope ratios. By analyzing variations in strontium-87 and strontium-86, they identified faster and slower flow zones aligned with sediment-filled valleys.
Geologists propose that high-pressure ice could accumulate in planetary interiors during subduction, potentially influencing tectonic activity and volcanic eruptions on Earth and Mars. This process may also impact the planet's thermal balance, with changes in water state affecting dynamics and evolution.
Researchers at UC Davis found that spirulina significantly increases cytokine production in cultured immune cells, promoting a cell-mediated immune response. This could provide potential benefits for protecting against intracellular pathogens and parasites.
A recent study by Virginia Tech researchers reveals that despite corrosion, the lead in bullets and shot remains trapped in mineral coatings, reducing environmental risk at shooting ranges. High concentrations of lead have been found on ranges worldwide, raising concerns about toxicity and environmental impact.
A University of Maine team found that zeolite and sunlight can rapidly break down pesticides in contaminated water. The researchers used malathion, a toxic insecticide linked to lobster deaths, to test the method.
Scientists at Virginia Tech have discovered a crucial mechanism behind the growth of calcium carbonate crystals, which help remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. The research could lead to novel materials with unique properties for medical and high-tech applications.
Scientists have discovered a wealth of green minerals, including olivine, on the Martian surface, indicating low levels of chemical weathering by water. This suggests that Mars has remained cold and dry for most of its geologic history, contradicting previous theories about a warm, wet past.
A team of scientists suggests that meteorites like ALH84001 could have transferred life between Mars and Earth. The analysis of the meteorite's magnetic field supports the hypothesis that meteorites can be an interplanetary delivery system capable of transferring life.
A fragile, charcoal-like meteorite that plummeted onto a frozen Canadian lake last January may represent the most primitive solar system material yet studied. Analysis of its mineral composition and oxygen and carbon isotopes suggests it could be part of a new class of carbonaceous chondrites, more primitive than any found previously.
INEEL researchers discovered a way to make rare earth magnets more powerful and durable by tweaking their formula. By adding extra elements, they improved the temperature resistance and magnetic field strength of the magnets.
A $1.1-million study led by LSU will examine marine life on offshore platforms for pharmaceutical value, while also investigating the potential for better glues and adhesives. The research aims to identify new treatments for diseases such as cancer and AIDS.
The average American consumes 27% of their daily energy from junk foods, which can lead to nutritional and health issues. The study found that those who consumed more healthy foods like fruits and vegetables were less likely to develop heart disease.
A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found a strong inverse association between fruit and vegetable intake and the risk of cardiovascular disease. Consuming 10 or more servings per day reduced the risk by 32%, while smokers still experienced a significant risk reduction.
Fossils of fungal spores and hyphae dating back 460-455 million years support the theory that fungi aided in plant invasion, suggesting interdependence between organisms. Fungi have been found in association with modern plants for up to 400 million years.
Research found that a poor diet, particularly low intakes of vegetables and vitamin E, significantly increases the risk of wheeze in children with asthma symptoms. The study suggests that a Western diet may be an important contributing factor to the rising prevalence of asthma and allergies in developed countries.
Researchers found similarities in bone structure among coelurosaurs, suggesting birds evolved from a group of dinosaurs. The study also sheds light on the debate over dinosaur metabolic rates, finding irregular collagen fiber bundles similar to those in modern birds.
Researchers have identified a protein that governs the flow of mineral-reducing pyrophosphate into joint tissues. This finding could provide powerful new insights into the basic mechanisms underlying some forms of arthritis, a group of diseases affecting half of people 65 and older.
Researchers have found a previously unknown oxygen-isotope signature in sulfate minerals on Earth, altering the understanding of the anomaly's origin. The discovery provides a new window into the Earth's ancient atmosphere and its cycling processes.
A study published in AIDS found an association between osteopenia and protease inhibitors, a class of medications used to treat HIV/AIDS. Researchers discovered that patients taking these medications were more likely to develop low bone-mineral density, which can lead to fractures.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a new membrane filtration system that enhances the nutritional value of coproducts, including gluten meal and gluten feed. This could lead to increased demand for corn and make ethanol production more profitable.
Researchers studied microbes living in Yellowstone National Park's hot springs to better interpret samples from Mars for signs of life. They developed a systematic model for travertine deposition, which could aid in identifying ancient microbial life.
Researchers have found that most of the interstellar dust particles consist of 3-dimensionally cross-linked organic macro-molecules, called polymeric-heterocyclic-aromates. These molecules have been detected in five impact mass spectrometer samples from NASA's STARDUST spacecraft.
Researchers at Michigan Tech are transferring altered genes into fungi to facilitate nutrient flow through tree roots, helping trees grow faster and live healthier lives. The fungus provides a protective coating around the tree's roots, preventing insect pests and diseases from attacking.
Researchers at Virginia Tech found that the amount of lead in the environment from bullets on battlefields is not a significant concern for water quality, with no contamination detected off range. However, they discovered that shot impacts cause significant damage to trees up to 140 meters beyond the range.
A team of UC Davis researchers has developed a novel method to quantify the rate at which minerals and water exchange oxygen molecules, which could provide a useful test for computer models. The study's findings could have practical applications in dealing with soil contaminants and predicting their movement or decomposition.
Researchers create way to 'finger print' and monitor water absorption in clays, which could improve oil well drilling and construction site understanding. The technique uses X-ray scattering to analyze the distance between crystal layers in clay.
A study found that metallothionein levels increase in the brain in response to alcohol consumption, suggesting a potential protective role. Higher MT levels may explain different levels of alcohol-related toxicity in individuals.
The Mars Global Surveyor's Thermal Emission Spectrometer has mapped the mineral composition of Mars' surface, revealing a primarily volcanic surface with distinct differences between southern and northern hemispheres. The survey provides valuable insights into Martian geology and may help explain changes in the planet's interior.
A University of Illinois researcher has shed light on the formation of silica-rich glasses in xenoliths by studying the chemical interaction between sodium and mantle rocks. The study reveals that sodium diffusion can significantly alter magma composition, leading to anomalous mineral ratios found beneath mid-ocean ridges.
A recent study by Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center reveals that celiac disease is not as rare in the United States as previously believed. The condition affects an estimated 1 in 150-200 people in Europe and can be asymptomatic for many years, then trigger symptoms with exposure to gluten.
University of Delaware scientists, including Craig Cary, embark on the first deep-sea dive of the new century to explore extreme organisms and understand life's origins. They will collect samples of toxic chemicals, organisms, rocks, and minerals using special instruments like deep-sea sensors.
A study of middle-aged women found that high consumption of zinc, magnesium, potassium, fiber, and vitamin C was linked to higher bone mineral density and reduced evidence of bone loss. Moderate alcohol intake also appeared to have a positive effect on bone health.
UB scientists discovered that soft spots on volcanoes can collapse and trigger devastating mudflows that can travel up to 80 miles. The research highlights the danger of older volcanoes with hydrothermal fluids, which change rock structure and make them more vulnerable to collapse.
Researchers developed a model that relates seismic velocity differences to properties of the mantle, shedding light on mantle evolution and its impact on plate movement, volcanism, and earthquakes. The study suggests temperatures high enough to cause melting in some regions, potentially explaining volcanic activity.
Researchers discovered statins, commonly used to lower cholesterol, can build new bone and potentially treat osteoporosis. Statin drugs stimulate the production of osteoblasts, specialized cells that create new bone.
A study has identified perchlorate in fertilizers, a chemical compound suspected of adverse health effects. The findings suggest that fertilizers could be a source for perchlorate accumulation in the food chain, posing risks to human health and ecosystems.
The Microbe-Mineral Group at Virginia Tech aims to discover conditions under which microbes release nutrients or contaminants from mineral surfaces. Researchers hope to advance bioremediation and control unwanted releases of phosphorus and other minerals.
A gamma-ray burst may have melted primordial dust grains, seeding the formation of meteorites and rocky planets like Earth. The theory suggests that only one Sun-like star in a thousand would be close enough to form chondrules.
Scientists discovered that microorganisms in basalt rock can reduce toxic hexavalent chromium to less toxic forms, especially in the presence of volatile organic compounds. The researchers found that certain bacteria, such as Arthrobacter oxydans, play a key role in this process.
A recent study found that restricting children's access to foods they want may lead to over-indulgence when they are free to make their own choices. Children took larger portions and ate more than normal when the restricted food was made available again.
Two Stanford University scientists argue that large amounts of water ice are unlikely on the Moon, suggesting an alternative explanation involving the reaction of lunar dust with hydrogen and oxygen. They propose that the Lunar Prospector crash could produce a plume of water vapor and hydroxyl ions without ice being present.