Articles tagged with Isotopes
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
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Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
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Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
Researchers analyzing Martian sediment samples suggest three possible explanations for the carbon's origin, including cosmic dust, ultraviolet degradation of carbon dioxide, or biological activity. The findings provide insights into the ancient Mars' carbon cycle and its potential habitability.
Researchers discover Amazon basin as main mechanism for precipitation in Atacama Desert, accounting for 40-80% of total precipitation. The findings reveal a new pathway of water supply for the driest region on Earth, aside from summer rain, through moist easterly winds and winter storms.
Scientists have created the world's lightest version of magnesium, a record-setting isotope that helps refine theories on atomic structure. The unstable isotope was produced using particle accelerators and decays within tenths of a second, making it impossible to measure directly.
Researchers at West Virginia University aim to develop more precise predictions about the role of individual soil microorganisms in the carbon cycle. They will use stable isotope probing to track carbon uptake and characterize the function of microbes in their natural communities.
Researchers at the University of Bonn have developed a new method to introduce heavy hydrogen isotopes into drugs, potentially making them more effective. The technique involves the use of epoxides and a titanium-based catalyst, allowing for precise control over the placement of deuterium atoms.
Researchers at Michigan State University's National Superconducting Cyclotron Laboratory have created the world's lightest version of magnesium, a highly unstable isotope that can help scientists better understand how atoms are made. This breakthrough is part of a larger effort to refine theories and models that explain the formation o...
A team of researchers found that the building blocks of Earth and Mars originated primarily from the inner Solar System, contradicting a popular theory. The study analyzed the isotopic composition of rocky planets and meteorites, revealing that only about 4% of the material came from beyond Jupiter's orbit.
A new study found that krypton isotopes in the deep mantle reveal a clearer picture of Earth's formation, contradicting the popular theory of volatile elements arrival. The research suggests that planetesimals from the cold outer solar system bombarded the Earth early on.
Scientists have developed a novel way to analyze nitrogen isotopes in whale baleen to reconstruct the animal's diet, trophic level, and migration pattern. The method reveals annual migration patterns between Arctic and North Atlantic oceans, providing insights into threatened population migration pathways.
A study by FAU Harbor Branch reveals that even properly functioning septic systems contribute to nitrogen pollution in the Indian River Lagoon. Groundwater samples showed higher dissolved nutrient concentrations than surface waters, indicating contaminated groundwater as a major source of nutrient loading.
A new study from the University of Bath is shedding light on the behavior of saline solutions under extreme conditions, a crucial step towards carbon storage in deep-sea aquifers. The research uses neutron diffraction to examine the interaction between salt ions and water molecules at high pressures and temperatures.
Scientists have discovered that Tasmanian devils' whiskers can capture seasonal dietary changes over at least nine months and potentially up to a year. The long, wiry whiskers hold chemical imprints from food the devils ate in the past, offering a way to monitor the endangered native species with minimal disruptions to their habitats.
Scientists have made new discoveries about the early solar system using meteorite glass beads. By analyzing the isotopic compositions of elements in these beads, researchers were able to determine that massive shockwaves passing through the nebula caused the extreme heating and cooling necessary for chondrule formation.
A new study using methane stable isotopes and thousands of emissions scenarios confirms that agricultural emissions are the primary driver of atmospheric methane increases. Human activities account for 60% of global methane emissions, with significant contributions from agriculture, landfills, and oil and gas industries.
The £3.6 million equipment will enable researchers to measure trace levels of radioactive elements, particularly actinides, in samples from UK nuclear facilities and natural environments.
A team of researchers found that microbes are responsible for the formation and production of methane in coal deposits. They analyzed methoxyl groups in coal samples from around the world and used stable isotopes to show that organic material becomes coal through microbial action, contradicting traditional geochemical understanding.
MARUM researchers simulate alternative hydrocarbon formation through reduction of acetic acid, proposing a new explanation for unusual isotope patterns. The findings provide insight into the rapid thermal alteration of sedimentary organic matter and its role in the global carbon cycle.
Scientists from the University of Münster used precise isotope measurements to determine that the Moon's heavy bombardment 3.9 billion years ago was caused by continuous impacts of leftover asteroids from the main phase of Earth's formation. The study rules out a sudden increase in impact rate due to outer solar system bodies.
Researchers found that microbes' growth rate decreased over 15 years of warming, and a loss of soil carbon may be responsible for the slowdown. Rare bacterial taxa were among the fastest growers, highlighting the importance of considering different organisms' responses.
The study found that early Homo sapiens had an omnivorous diet in the tropical rainforest of Southeast Asia, consuming both plants and animals. The zinc isotope analysis revealed a mix of specialized adaptations to this environment, differing from previous assumptions about human diet.
A new experiment measures the neutron skin in a calcium nucleus, shedding light on proton-neutron interactions. The results will be presented at the 2021 Fall Meeting of the APS Division of Nuclear Physics.
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati have developed a new tool to aid in the conservation of critical habitats by tracking the migratory patterns of wide-ranging hawks and falcons. By analyzing isotopes from the feathers of young birds, scientists can pinpoint their likely origins with surprising precision.
Researchers from Shibaura Institute of Technology synthesized atropisomeric N-aryl quinazoline-4-thiones, showing unprecedented isotopic atropisomerism due to rotational restriction around an N-Ar bond. The findings support the formation of diastereomers and have potential applications in pharmaceuticals.
A new study led by the American Museum of Natural History suggests that the extinct ground sloth Mylodon was an omnivore, contrary to previous assumptions. The researchers analyzed amino acid nitrogen values in fossil samples to determine their diet, finding evidence of meat consumption.
The 2021 Fall Meeting of the APS Division of Nuclear Physics presents cutting-edge research on nuclear astrophysics, quantum technology, and rare isotopes. Researchers will discuss breakthroughs such as the most precise measurement of neutron lifetime and novel experiments measuring neutron skin in calcium.
A new study from Washington University in St. Louis suggests that Mars' small size limits its habitability due to a lack of retained volatiles. Researchers used potassium isotopes to determine the presence and abundance of volatile elements on Mars, finding a correlation between body size and volatile composition.
Researchers used isotope mapping to track monarch butterfly migration routes and identify their natal origins. The study, led by a University of Ottawa student, revealed that monarchs from the eastern US likely originated in Texas, providing valuable insights into population decline.
Researchers developed a method to scale up nanocages to trap noble gases like krypton and xenon. The team used commercial materials and found the optimal temperature range for trapping gas atoms inside the cages.
A study published in Nature Communications Earth & Environment reveals that ʻopihi age, growth, and longevity are influenced by the Hawaiian intertidal environment. The research team found that ʻopihi species grow rapidly, reaching maturity within 8-9 months, and can live up to 5 years old.
Researchers at Nagoya City University find a fourfold increase in surface deuterium atoms on nanocrystalline silicon, paving the way for sustainable deuterium enrichment protocols. The efficient exchange reaction could lead to more durable semiconductor technology and potentially purify tritium contaminated water.
Researchers used isotopic data from a mammoth's tusk to recreate its lifetime journey, covering vast distances across Alaska. The study provides the first evidence that woolly mammoths traveled extensively.
A database of 3,000 lead isotope analyses has been compiled for the Iberian Peninsula, providing a comprehensive resource for geological and archaeological research. The IBERLID database includes standardized data on minerals, rocks, and metallic objects, facilitating comparison and analysis.
Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory are advancing various technologies to minimize oil leaks, enable 3D printing in space, and increase fuel efficiency from ethanol. They have developed a quantum sensing system to detect pipeline leaks more quickly, built a thermal protection shield for a capsule launched into space, and creat...
Researchers developed a simple and fast method to analyze sulfur isotopes, enabling the detection of seawater intrusion into freshwater systems. This method can help investigate chemical changes in environments affected by sea level rise.
The research found dramatically different quantum state population distributions of OH and OD fragments from HOD photodissociation. The branching ratios display large wavelength-dependent isotopic fractionation, influencing D/H isotope heterogeneity in the solar system.
Researchers reconstructed full-frequency precipitation variability in the Asian Summer Monsoon using a 6,700-year tree-ring stable isotope chronology. The data suggests a long-term decreasing trend and several abrupt climate change events, including a drought regime from ~1,675-1,185 BCE.
Ecologists from HKU have developed a novel forensic tool using stable isotope techniques to determine whether birds in the pet trade are captive or wild-caught. The tool uses carbon and nitrogen values to analyze amino acid isotopes, distinguishing between diets of captive and wild birds.
A new study published in Environmental Research found that various dolphin species can coexist without competing for food, even though they hunt at the same depth. The researchers used stable nitrogen isotopes to determine the trophic level of each species, revealing surprising differences in their diets.
Researchers have determined that a massive star, rather than the young sun, was responsible for the split in oxygen isotopes found in the sun and other planets. The study, led by Lionel Vacher, used an unusual meteorite named Acfer 094 to gain insight into the solar system's past.
This article discusses the findings of two new studies published in the GSA Bulletin. The first study examines the role of berthierine in controlling reservoir quality in deeply buried sandstone reservoirs, challenging the common assertion that chlorite coating inhibits quartz overgrowths. The second study investigates the rapid emplac...
A new study investigates human mobility at Alalakh during the Bronze Age, finding most people were born and raised in the region. Genetic data shows ancestry from neighboring regions, with only one individual showing Central Asian origins but local upbringing.
Researchers from Uppsala University and others found new clues about Indonesia's explosive volcanoes by analyzing lava minerals. The study enhances our understanding of how volcanism in the Indonesian archipelago works, helping predict volcanic eruptions.
A new study published in Nature Communications confirms that the end-Permian mass extinction was caused by nickel-rich aerosols from volcanic eruptions. The study uses nickel isotope analyses to demonstrate a direct link between global dispersion of Ni-rich aerosols, ocean chemistry changes and the mass extinction event.
A study reveals that 60% of lead in Canadian Arctic seawater comes from human sources, particularly historic lead emissions from Europe and Russia. The findings suggest that permafrost melting and coastal erosion will continue to remobilize these contaminants, making lead isotopes a sensitive tracer for pollutants in Arctic seawater.
Researchers used a new technique to reconstruct the climate of Europe during the Cretaceous period, finding that temperatures fluctuated between 15°C and 27°C. This shows that seasonal differences remained constant despite rising average temperatures, leading to hotter summers and warmer winters.
Scientists have created a new instrument that can sort and sequence the genome of individual soil bacteria while identifying their functions. The RACS-Seq technique uses laser tweezers and gravity to analyze each bacterium one by one.
Researchers analyzed stable isotope analysis of skin, muscle, and bone tissue to study Sowerby's beaked whale spatial ecology. The results show that the species exhibits both short- and long-term habitat fidelity, with at least two subpopulations in the eastern and western Atlantic.
Geochemical evidence contradicts historical accounts by Herodotus and Diodorus Siculus, showing that Himera's soldiers were mostly local during the first battle but increased non-Greek mercenaries in the second. The study provides new insights into ancient Greek military forces and migration patterns.
Researchers have discovered a new method to track oxygen levels in the ancient oceans by analyzing tungsten isotopes. This breakthrough may provide valuable insights into the evolution of life on Earth and its ability to thrive under various environmental conditions.
A century ago, human populations consumed a more diverse diet than today. The rise of industrial agriculture and globalization led to a significant narrowing of dietary breadth for modern human populations.
A new study reveals that rapid methane release occurs in response to Arctic ice sheet melting, with thousands of years of data showing a correlation between deglaciation events and methane emissions. The research suggests that the release of this potent greenhouse gas is strongly linked to the retreat of ice sheets.
A new study using bone collagen analysis shows that Japanese flounder exhibit behavioral groups with different migration patterns and feeding habits. The researchers analyzed vertebral-bone collagen isotope ratios to reconstruct individual migration and feeding history, revealing distinct differences among fish.
Researchers at Chinese Academy of Sciences discover abnormal enhancement of α-particle clustering in uranium isotopes, revealing strong proton-neutron interaction influence on α-decay properties. The study reveals systematics trends and anomalies in α-decay reduced widths for polonium-plutonium nuclei near shell closure.
Researchers at Tomsk Polytechnic University developed a mathematical model and software to predict ClO2 molecule properties with high accuracy, surpassing existing results by 10 folds. The model was applied to analyze rotational-vibrational spectra in a degenerate electronic state, showing promising results.
Researchers found that blow fly larvae fed on carnivores in Indianapolis but herbivores in Yellowstone National Park, indicating competition for food sources. The study suggests that blow flies can serve as sentinels for animal response to climate change and environmental changes.
Scientists Simin Wang and Witold Nazarewicz develop a computer model to reconstruct protons inside the nucleus based on detector data, enabling predictions about nuclear behavior. The model helps understand rare nuclei decay by emitting pairs of particles.
A Stanford-led study illuminates the mystery of North Pacific loggerhead turtles' epic migrations between Japan and Baja California, providing evidence of a 'thermal corridor' that allows them to cross inhospitably cold ocean barriers. The findings could inform conservation measures to protect sea turtles amidst climatic changes.
Researchers reconstruct the Mesozoic paleogeography of the NE Asian continental margin, revealing a transition from passive to active continental margin settings. Additionally, studies investigate low-δ18O A-type granites in SW China, suggesting interaction between the subducted Paleotethyan slab and the Emeishan mantle plume.
A research team has discovered organic carbon compounds in fluid inclusions from the Dresser Mine in Australia, dating back 3.5 billion years. These findings suggest that primordial microbes may have had the necessary conditions to exist on Earth at this time.
Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have observed a new form of fluorine, the isotope 13F, which has four fewer neutrons than the naturally occurring stable isotope 19F. This discovery was made using a charge-exchange reaction mechanism, allowing scientists to create a previously inaccessible isotope with exotic properties.