The study provides new evidence on the timing and migration path of early hominids out of Africa. Researchers used Earth's magnetic field reversals to determine a more precise age for the Erk-el-Ahmar site, which dates back around 300,000 years.
A study by Steven M. Ortiz finds that athlete wives develop coping strategies to deal with the stress of infidelity, often using humor or changing boundaries of trust. The wives who marry athletes for glamour and money may be more accepting of their husbands' affairs.
A new study reveals that well-intentioned conservation programs in the Amazon are insufficient to offset the destruction from agriculture, timber, and mining. The researchers project devastating impacts on biodiversity, climate change, and global warming if current trends continue.
Researchers propose that wolf presence in Yellowstone reduces elk browsing, allowing aspen trees to grow and recover. Aspen groves were largely lost due to human activity, but the absence of wolves is thought to be a key factor.
A new system of planting different varieties of rice plants can significantly reduce problems with the fungal disease 'blast', which causes lesions on rice plants, reduces yields and in severe cases can kill entire crops. This approach has been shown to eliminate losses to blast in some types of glutinous rice.
A study by Oregon State University researchers found that 46% of adult white-tailed ptarmigan in a 10,000-square kilometer area of south-central Colorado have cadmium accumulations in their kidneys above the toxic threshold. Cadmium toxicity causes kidney and liver dysfunction, brittle bones, and affects reproduction and survival.
Scientists have found fossils of an ancient, feathered animal that lived 220 million years ago, which may be the ancestor of birds. The discovery challenges widely accepted theories about the evolutionary link between dinosaurs and birds.
Researchers from OSU discovered that some Hawaiian sea mounts were influenced by the existence of a mid-ocean ridge subducted under present-day Siberia. The findings provide more evidence on how volcanic hot spots interact with tectonic plates.
Researchers at Oregon State University have discovered a new class of chemicals called 'bruchins' that signal a plant to form a benign tumor, helping prevent insect infestation. The unusual chemical can induce tumor formation even at low levels, with precise effects on the plant.
A new study by Oregon State University found that postmenopausal women who participate in a long-term fitness regimen can prevent significant bone loss in the hip. The exercise program, which includes weighted vests and jumping exercises, showed a significant reduction in bone density loss compared to a control group.
New research refutes claims that U.S. forests and vegetation are 'sequestering' enough carbon to offset fossil fuel emissions, suggesting at least 70-90% of emissions stay in atmosphere or be sequestered elsewhere. The study's findings have important implications for the role of the U.S. in combating global warming.
An asteroid impact would cause catastrophic destruction and an impact winter, but a subsequent 'ultraviolet spring' could be even more devastating due to ozone depletion and acid rain. This period of intense UV radiation could lead to widespread DNA damage, mutations, cancer, and plant death.
The internet has the potential to transform education through improved metadata and online resources, making it more accessible and effective for learners worldwide. Robby Robson, an expert in education reform, suggests that trusted repositories using metadata could steer students towards relevant information and courses.
Despite computers and the Internet's potential to revolutionize information access for people with disabilities, progress has been slow due to a lack of investment from governments and industries. However, advancements in technology, such as accessible software programs and tactile graphics, hold promise for improving accessibility.
A leading expert warns that amphibian declines are a complex problem with multiple causes, including rising levels of UV-B radiation, pathogens, and pollutants. The lack of a single cause does not diminish the seriousness of this ecological phenomenon.
A new study at Oregon State University found that low levels of nitrate and nitrite in water can kill some species of amphibians, especially during their larval stages. The study suggests that water quality criteria set by the EPA may not guarantee the survival of all protected and endangered amphibian species.
A 500mg daily vitamin C supplement reduced systolic, diastolic, and mean blood pressures by approximately 9% in hypertensive patients. Vitamin C's antioxidant properties may help protect nitric oxide levels and maintain healthy blood pressure.
A group of Oregon State University scientists emphasize the potential benefits of genetic engineering in forestry, including faster-growing trees that can reduce the burden on native forests. They argue against 'genetic extremism' and call for a more careful analysis of the issues based on science.
Researchers at Oregon State University have discovered a male pheromone that calms female salamanders during courtship, making them more receptive to mating. The study highlights the complex role of pheromones in animal behavior and suggests potential applications in human reproduction.
New research recommends a higher intake of vitamin C due to its role in preventing cardiovascular disease, cancer, and cataracts. Studies show that increased levels of vitamin C can reduce risk factors associated with these conditions, making it essential for overall health.
Research by Oregon State University's Linus Pauling Institute found that vitamin C does not interact with metals like iron in a way that causes pro-oxidant effects. Instead, it reduces oxidative damage and is linked to improved health outcomes, including reduced risk of cancer, heart disease, and aging.
New studies suggest ecosystems can be disrupted by small environmental changes or loss of minor species, challenging conventional wisdom on ecological protection. Research finds importance of both keystone and lesser species in ecosystem function.
The Partnership for Interdisciplinary Studies of Coastal Oceans: A Long-Term Ecological Consortium will study coastal ecosystems, interactions between fish and invertebrates, and effects of global warming. Researchers will use new biological monitoring devices to track near-shore ecological patterns along the coast.
Mary Jo Nye emphasizes the importance of scientists' involvement in public policy debates to prevent poorly informed decisions. By engaging with the public and fellow scientists, researchers can help ensure that critical issues are addressed through a nuanced understanding of data and technical expertise.
A new fossil discovery provides unprecedented insights into dinosaur biology, metabolism, and lifestyle. The analysis reveals that theropod dinosaurs were cold-blooded but had the potential for high levels of oxygen exchange, similar to birds and mammals.
A new report reveals that shrimp and salmon aquaculture may be depleting fisheries, disrupting coastal ecosystems, and polluting the ocean due to unsustainable practices. Improved practices, such as reducing fish feed requirements and minimizing pollution, are needed to make these industries more sustainable.
Scientists at Oregon State University have found evidence of rock-eating microbes living nearly a mile beneath the ocean floor, which could suggest similar life on Mars or other planets. The discovery suggests that conditions similar to those on Mars exist beneath the ocean floor and could support life.
The Oregon State University-led program aims to bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and public perception on environmental issues. The five-year grant-funded initiative will train 20 tenured scientists in effective communication skills, enabling them to share their expertise with local communities, media, and policymakers.
A new study found that the biggest factor in student cheating is the instructor, with tenured or tenure-track faculty reducing cheating. Professors can reduce cheating by offering multiple exam versions, giving verbal warnings, and using additional proctors, making students 25-13-11 percent less likely to cheat.
Researchers discovered bacterial colonies thriving in Antarctic ice, surviving on minimal light and water. The findings suggest similar life forms may exist on Mars or Europa, and could provide insights for searching for life beyond our solar system.
Researchers found that patients with high vitamin C levels had improved blood vessel function, reducing the risk of unstable angina pectoris. A 500 milligram daily supplement of vitamin C may also be beneficial in improving blood vessel dilation and reducing heart attack risks.
Researchers at Oregon State University have discovered a new compound with unique properties that could be used in various applications. The compound, zirconium tungstate, has been found to behave under high pressures and has potential uses in electronics, optics and dental care.
Scientists from Oregon State University and others announced a breakthrough in colossal magnetoresistance, a phenomenon that holds promise for improved computer memory and data storage. The discovery of thallium manganese oxide may lead to new avenues of research and materials development.
Research by Oregon State University's John Gillis suggests that drug treatment programs don't work, and instead, motivation for getting clean must come from within. The professor notes that relapses are inevitable unless underlying causes of addiction are addressed in the long term.