A new study by Oregon State University researchers found that cougar predation has a significant impact on the environment, leading to severe ecological damage and loss of biodiversity in Zion National Park. The 'trophic cascade' effect, where the decline of a major predator leads to changes in herbivore populations and behavior, is ev...
Researchers at Oregon State University have developed stronger and less expensive wood-plastic composites that can use inexpensive plastics found in old carpet fibers. These new products have the potential to capture 20% of the decking market by 2010, reducing waste disposal concerns.
Researchers at Oregon State University have developed a new technique to visualize and measure superoxide in animal cells, offering a breakthrough in understanding degenerative diseases such as Lou Gehrig's Disease, heart disease, diabetes, and aging. The discovery could significantly speed up research on these conditions.
A new study found that large segments of the Pacific Ocean lack sufficient iron to trigger healthy phytoplankton growth, leading to overestimated ocean productivity. The researchers estimate a 2-4% reduction in global ocean carbon uptake due to this oversight.
Researchers analyzed carbon isotopes in Greenland ice core samples to determine the source of a 50% increase in atmospheric methane around 12,000 years ago. They conclude that tropical wetlands and plant production are more likely causes than seafloor methane deposits.
Two groups of researchers from Oregon State University and the USDA Forest Service exchange perspectives on post-wildfire salvage logging, forest regeneration, and fire risk. The OSU team questioned the methodology and conclusions of a previous study, while the response emphasizes the strength of the original design and findings.
Scientists call for a new initiative to address the growing proportion of threatened and extinct amphibian species, with 32% at risk. The alliance aims to combat diseases, habitat loss, invasive species, and other causes through research, training, and conservation efforts.
A new study found that mobile home-dwellers in rural areas face numerous challenges, including high-interest loans, social instability, and stigmatization. The researchers recommend policy changes to address these issues, such as reclassifying mobile homes in the tax code to reduce interest rates.
A new study by veterinary researchers at Oregon State University has linked vesivirus to a major epidemic of abortion in Kentucky Thoroughbred mares. The findings suggest that broodmares are being commonly exposed to vesivirus from unknown sources, and that exposure to such horses might be a concern for pregnant women.
Researchers have identified the genes CO and FT responsible for tree flowering and reproduction, which could lead to faster breeding programs and strategies. This breakthrough may also help predict how trees will respond to climate change.
Researchers observed eruptive activity at Northwest Rota-1 for three separate visits over two years, suggesting chronic eruptions. They used an underwater robot to observe explosive activity from 10 feet away, gaining clearer insights than possible on land.
A study by Oregon State University found that housing discrimination can occur based on name, with some landlords reacting more negatively to minority-sounding names. The research used a large sample of e-mail inquiries to landlords in Los Angeles and found significant differences in responses received by different names.
Researchers identify key factors that contribute to the amplification and transmission of West Nile Virus, including drought-induced conditions and specific mosquito species. By understanding these local conditions, control strategies can be devised to prevent the spread of the disease.
Researchers suggest that the subduction of the northern portion of the Juan de Fuca plate beneath the North American plate may be slowing and eventually cease, potentially altering the seismic hazard profile of the region. The discovery was made using advanced technology and data from formerly classified U.S. Navy hydrophones.
A recent study published in Geochimica et Cosmochimica Acta suggests a massive meteorite shower occurred on the Moon 3.8-4 billion years ago, potentially impacting Earth as well. The lunar rocks analyzed produced ages close to 3.9 billion years and exhibited different chemical fingerprints, indicating repeated bombardment by meteorites.
Researchers found high levels of toxic contaminants in white sturgeon from areas above Bonneville Dam, leading to reduced growth and reproductive fitness. The contamination is thought to be accumulating behind dams, posing a threat to the fish's survival and ecosystem balance.
Researchers at Oregon State University confirmed the existence of a 'dark state' in DNA molecules that makes them vulnerable to UV-induced damage. The study suggests that water played a crucial role in stabilizing these early DNA bases and allowing life to emerge from a hostile primordial soup.
A Mars meteorite containing tiny burrows has been discovered, sparking interest in the search for life beyond Earth. The discovery, published in Astrobiology journal, suggests that Martian rock formations may be similar to those created by bacteria on Earth.
A study found that Vesivirus antibodies were present in over 40% of patients with clinical hepatitis, suggesting a potential link between the virus and human disease. The research also highlights the widespread distribution of Vesivirus in various animal species, including fish and primates.
The university has created a five-stage ring oscillator, marking a significant milestone in the development of transparent electronics. The technology has been supported by major organizations and holds promise for applications in displays, cell phones, televisions, and more.
New study reveals ice sheets can react differently to global warming, growing in some cases and disappearing rapidly in others. The Scandinavian Ice Sheet, which existed 10,000 years ago, grew during a period of warming but cold climate, before rapidly disintegrating once the climate warmed further.
Researchers suggest that seafood can play a role in reducing coronary heart disease, Alzheimer's, and other mental illnesses. Seafood is rich in omega-3 fatty acids like DHA, which support cognitive development and brain health. However, more research is needed to fully understand the risks and benefits of seafood consumption.
The study shows that vitamin C supplements can protect against the loss of vitamin E in smokers, reducing cancer risk. Smokers who took supplements had about the same level of antioxidant protection as non-smokers.
A study published in Nature finds that climate change created favorable conditions for a pathogenic fungus, leading to widespread extinctions of harlequin frogs. The research highlights the complex relationship between global warming and disease transmission, underscoring the urgent need to understand the impacts on biodiversity.
College students who have positive role models such as clergy, Boy Scout leaders, friends, and college advisers exhibit less willingness to adopt questionable ethical behavior in negotiations. In contrast, those with negative role models like journalists and coaches tend to be more accepting of unethical tactics.
After a high-severity fire, natural conifer regeneration can occur, with seedlings per acre reaching up to 300, but logging reduces this by 71%. Logging can also produce fine fuels that increase fire risk. The study suggests leaving dead trees standing may reduce re-burn risks.
Scientists use hydrophones to distinguish sounds made by different whale species, finding rare right whale sightings in the Gulf of Alaska and distinct 'dialects' among species. The study also reveals surprisingly robust populations of sperm whales during winter months.
A study by Oregon State University researchers found that switching between tasks, like driving and cell phone use, leads to delays in response time and accuracy. The study suggests that simplifying tasks can help efficiency, but technology is complicating everything, including driving.
The North Magnetic Pole's movement may be part of a normal oscillation and will eventually migrate back toward Canada. Scientists tracked the pole's movement using sediment records from Arctic lakes, providing a reliable timeline and revealing a 'jerk' in the magnetic field every 500 years.
Researchers have expanded the view of climate history by analyzing new ice cores that provide a record of atmospheric conditions up to 650,000 years. The study suggests that current conditions are a distinct anomaly and may be linked to human influence on greenhouse gases.
Researchers at Oregon State University have cultured SAR11 bacteria in a lab to study its unique 'proteorhodopsin' gene. The findings suggest that this gene may serve as an auxiliary energy system for the cells when faced with starvation, benefiting ocean life.
Researchers at Oregon State University have identified a protein that can cross plant cell membranes and function as a toxin, allowing for potential manipulation of plant behavior. The discovery bears similarity to mammalian cell function and may lead to new tools for delivering compounds inside plant cells.
Researchers warn that the breakdown of major ice sheets in Greenland and Antarctica could significantly speed up sea level rise, potentially doubling current projections. The study suggests that these mechanisms should be carefully considered in future climate models to ensure accurate sea level rise predictions.
Researchers found that individuals' body weight influences their preference for residential locations in sprawling counties. Personal attributes like gender, age, and marital status also play a role in this decision.
Researchers at Oregon State University have made significant breakthroughs in cancer research using zebrafish, a small tropical fish. Studies have proven that zebrafish can be used to test high numbers of possible drug therapies and may lead to new cancer therapies.
A new study reveals that the SAR11 microbe's streamlined genome is key to its dominance in oceans, recycling organic carbon and supporting 50% of global photosynthesis. With a compact genetic makeup, SAR11 can survive in low-nutrient environments and efficiently reproduce by consuming dissolved organic matter.
A newly discovered invasive parasite is destroying the small sunbleak minnow's ability to spawn, potentially threatening freshwater ecosystem diversity and stability. The parasite, found in Asian gudgeon fish, causes near 100% failure in successful spawning, wiping out local populations over several generations.
Researchers used digital particle imaging velocimetry to document the movement of air around a hummingbird's wings, revealing that it develops only 25% of its weight support during the upstroke. This unique wing structure enables hummingbirds to tap into 'leading edge vortices' and gain hovering ability.
Researchers found that genetic manipulation of the fruitless gene in females led to classic male sexual behavior patterns, including courtship dances. The study suggests a strong biological basis for sexual behavior and orientation in animal species.
Scientists from Oregon State University have discovered new theories about Mars' climate and polar regions, shedding light on the mystery of the planet's icecaps. The study reveals that the southern pole's permanent icecap is comprised primarily of carbon dioxide ice, which could indicate global climate change.
Researchers at Oregon State University have used X-ray crystallography to determine the three-dimensional structures of nearly all possible sequences of a macromolecule, creating a map of DNA structure. This breakthrough should fundamentally improve our understanding of genetic function and biological processes.
A new study published in Geology estimates the maximum possible earthquake magnitude in the San Fernando and Northridge areas of Los Angeles County. The researchers used paleomagnetism to analyze sediments and found that the crust is broken into blocks, limiting the maximum earthquake magnitude to around 6.8.
A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that smoking depletes vitamin E levels 13% faster than non-smokers, increasing health risks. The research also reveals an interactive relationship between vitamins C and E, highlighting the importance of adequate levels of both antioxidants to prevent disease.
A study by Oregon State University suggests that ocean currents could disrupt the marine food chain, leading to a decline in phytoplankton productivity. The Atlantic Conveyer current, which warms Europe, is a critical component of this process, and its disruption could have far-reaching consequences for global food security.
A new adhesive inspired by mussel protein has been developed, offering superior strength and water resistance. The adhesive is made from natural resources such as soy flour and lignin and does not use formaldehyde or other toxic chemicals.
A recent study published in Geology found that Kilauea's sulfur dioxide emissions can cause bronchial irritation, trigger asthma attacks, and potentially lead to cardiac problems. The researchers recommend establishing monitoring in the region directly south of the volcano to better understand the health risks.
Researchers discovered that certain marine red seaweeds can efficiently neutralize organic pollutants, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. The process, known as phycoremediation, shows promise for developing new bioremediation technologies to remove contaminants from the marine environment.
Researchers developed a new method to measure phytoplankton growth rates and biomass using satellite data, providing insights into the Earth's oceans. This discovery has significant implications for understanding marine ecosystems, fisheries, and climate change.
Experts from Oregon State University are pioneering wave power technology, which could become a major contributor to the nation's energy needs. The proposed U.S. Ocean Energy Research and Demonstration Center would evaluate existing systems and test new ones.
A recent study found that HIV/AIDS conspiracy beliefs are associated with negative attitudes towards condoms and inconsistent condom use among African American men. The study suggests that addressing these beliefs is crucial in changing the disproportionately high rate of HIV and AIDS in this community.