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.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
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.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
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 suggest that our solar system formed in a wind-blown bubble structure around a Wolf-Rayet star, which produces elements like aluminium-26 but not iron-60. This theory aims to explain the unusual abundance of these elements in our solar system compared to the rest of the galaxy.
Researchers have discovered fossil evidence of early Archaea life forms in Western Australia's Apex chert formation, dated to approximately 3.5 billion years ago. The findings suggest that methane cycling between producer and consumer organisms was a significant component of the early biosphere.
The discovery of microscopic fossils in a 3.5-billion-year-old rock piece in Western Australia confirms life on Earth began before this date. The study identified 11 microbial specimens from five separate taxa, linking their morphologies to chemical signatures characteristic of life.
Researchers tracked Henst's goshawk population by analyzing strontium isotopes in leaves and animal remains, revealing the birds' hunting habits. The findings suggest that goshawks mainly inhabit lower elevations in forest areas vulnerable to human impacts, which could inform conservation efforts.
Scientists have discovered that heterogeneities in the Earth's mantle are at least a kilometer in size, enabling the survival of their chemical signature during magma transport. This finding has significant implications for our understanding of mantle convection and its impact on tectonic plate movement.
Researchers from Sweden propose a new theory on the Chernobyl disaster, suggesting a nuclear explosion preceded a steam explosion. The theory is supported by observations of debris and weather conditions.
Green turtles breed in Cyprus and forage in Lake Bardawil, a new important feeding ground discovered using stable isotope ratios and satellite tracking. The study found that 82% of female turtles show high consistency in their isotope ratios, indicating they return to the same places.
Scientists have found evidence that komatiites, three-billion-year-old volcanic rocks found within the Earth's mantle, had a different composition than modern ones. This discovery may provide new information about the first one billion years of Earth's development and early origins of life.
Researchers at UNIST have developed a novel hydrogen isotope separation system based on porous metal organic frameworks, exhibiting the highest selectivity to date. The system can efficiently separate and store deuterium, with a separation factor of 26, making it more cost-effective than cryogenic distillation methods.
A study uses isotope fingerprinting to examine alabaster trade in Europe over five centuries, revealing previously unknown sources of alabaster in the French Alps that supplied eastern France. The results suggest an important alabaster industry in the French Alps during this time period.
Researchers found that water with different isotopes exhibits complex dynamic properties when in contact with liquid water. The team's findings have significant implications for understanding ice crystallization and its applications in various industries, including agriculture and food preservation.
Laurence Yeung, a geochemist at Rice University, has been awarded a 2017 Packard Fellowship to support his research on the atmospheric system. He plans to use the grant to take risks and explore new ideas in his field, including the development of a compact device for isotopic measurements.
Researchers found significant differences in diet between those buried in dolmens and caves, suggesting possible socioeconomic differences. The study used stable carbon and nitrogen isotopes to analyze bone collagen and found a more diverse diet in cave burials.
Researchers have developed a new method to track the origin of individual batches of heroin, potentially aiding in the disruption of the opioid crisis. By analyzing the ratio of radiogenic strontium isotopes, they can differentiate samples from different geographic regions.
Scientists from the University of Bristol have discovered evidence suggesting that massive collisions during planetary accretion resulted in significant mass loss, altering a planet's composition. This process, which occurred in the Earth and Mars formation, led to their distinctive volatile poor compositions.
Isotopic analysis of human remains reveals differences in diet and socioeconomic status between cave and megalithic graves, suggesting local land use partitioning. The study proposes two explanations for these findings: socioeconomic class divisions or different populations with distinct subsistence economies.
Researchers analyzed century-old seal pelts to investigate human impacts on the Antarctic ecosystem. They found that Weddell seals' diets have not changed significantly over the past hundred years, but significant change occurred in the phytoplankton community, likely due to climatic shifts.
A new study from the University of California San Diego suggests that the moon's interior is likely very dry, contradicting recent findings of wetness. The researchers analyzed fragments of the 'Rusty Rock,' a lunar rock collected during the Apollo 16 mission in 1972.
Analysis of ancient Roman coins found that the defeat of Hannibal during the Second Punic War led to a significant increase in Spanish silver mining revenue, contributing to Rome's expansion. This finding provides tangible evidence of Rome's transition from regional power to empire.
Scientists used isotope signatures to determine where Myrtle warblers breed during the summer, finding they migrate from Vancouver's Pacific Coast to these high latitude areas. This discovery highlights adaptations for longer migrations and potentially genetic influences on migration routes.
Researchers analyzed strontium isotopes in prehistoric cattle teeth to infer herding management and mobility. The study found three distinct herding patterns, indicating local, seasonal, and year-round grazing strategies that may have contributed to social inequalities.
Researchers found that Przewalski's horses, now protected in the Gobi Desert, consume only high-quality grass throughout the year due to improved human attitudes. In contrast, Khulan wild asses also live in the same habitat but are still hunted and have a more restricted diet.
A global data set reveals that volcanic arcs mobilize carbon from crustal carbonate platforms, particularly in Italy and Indonesia. This finding requires a downward revision of past organic carbon burial estimates.
A team of researchers from Binghamton University analyzed human and faunal remains to find that around half the protein in diets came from marine sources, contradicting previous estimates. The findings suggest the Rapa Nui population had extensive knowledge to overcome poor soil fertility and create a sustainable food supply.
Scientists reconstructed annual temperature anomaly in southern China from 1850-2009 using high-resolution temperature proxies. The results show robust centennial warming and a first rapid cooling followed by significant warming intervals, with the most recent being from 1970, featuring unprecedented warmth rates.
Researchers found evidence of permanent high-elevation occupation through isotope chemistry and archaeological data. The Soro Mik' aya Patjxa population successfully adapted to the challenging environment without modern gear or food.
Researchers developed a concept to model the physical surroundings' influence on Acacia longifolia's interaction with other plants, considering factors like soil type, nutrients, light intensity, wind, and soil moisture. Isoscapes reveal the distribution of nitrogen introduced by the invasive species across the landscape.
Researchers from Oak Ridge National Laboratory used neutron scattering analysis to examine a living cell membrane at the nanoscale, resolving a long-standing debate about lipid molecule organization. They found tiny groupings of lipid molecules that are likely key to the cell's functioning.
A new UNLV study published in Nature Geoscience has found evidence of nearly continuous warming in the Ural Mountains in central Russia over the past 11,000 years. This contradicts previous work that focused on summer temperature trends and supports computer models predicting continual warming.
Researchers have discovered that sedimentary cycles are linked to sea level changes, rather than mountain erosion. The study uses carbon isotopes to predict sedimentary rock distribution and better understand the Earth's sedimentary history.
A recent study published in Nature Ecology and Evolution reveals that rising moisture levels may have contributed to the extinction of giant herbivores approximately 10,000 years ago. Researchers analyzed carbon and nitrogen isotopes in ancient animal bones to infer climate conditions and dietary habits of the megafauna.
Researchers have developed a new scientific technique that can analyze human hair to provide clues about a person's lifestyle. The technique uses liquid chromatography in conjunction with isotope ratio mass spectrometry (LC-IRMS) to identify 15 isotope ratio measurements that potentially yield crucial information about certain lifestyl...
Analysis of isotopes in bones and teeth from fifth-century cemeteries reveals hybridity among nomads and settlers, suggesting cooperation and coexistence. This challenges the traditional narrative of the Huns' violent attacks on settlements on the edge of the Roman Empire.
Analysis of Canadian Shield rock samples reveals components of Earth's original crust dated to over 4.2 billion years ago. The findings provide insight into the evolution of the oldest elements of Earth's continental hard outer layer.
Researchers have discovered a critical finding about Alexander disease, a rare and fatal neurological disorder. Using mouse models, they found that the GFAP protein behind the symptoms is broken down more rapidly than previously thought.
Researchers have developed a new method to analyze the carbon content of ancient coccolithophore shells, providing insights into past CO2 levels and climate sensitivity. The study uses mathematical modeling and laboratory experiments to understand the biology of ancient creatures and their impact on the environment.
A study by Prof. ZHANG Donghui and colleagues reveals details of the H' + CH4 substitution reaction, which proceeds through the back-side attack Walden inversion mechanism. The reaction exhibits a high threshold energy and different isotope effects for thermal rate constant and cross-sections.
A team of researchers has found that the Earth's iron composition is not linked to its core formation, sparking alternative theories on why our planet has higher levels of heavy iron isotopes. The study suggests light iron isotopes may have been vaporized into space or incorporated into rock through slow mantle churning.
Scientists studied iron isotope ratios to understand Earth's differentiation event and how it differed from other planets. Nickel played a key role in shaping the ratios, with different elements forming under various planetary formation conditions.
Researchers refuted the notion that Indian corn was cultivated hundreds of years before its widespread adoption at around 1000 A.D. in the American Bottom region. The study used accelerated mass spectrometry to directly date plant fragments, revealing that corn was not widely consumed until 900 or later.
Scientists from Ludwig-Maximilians-Universitaet Munich have successfully measured the lifetime of an excited state in an unstable element, paving the way for the development of nuclear clocks. The research team has characterized the energy transition in the 229Th nucleus and achieved a breakthrough in this field.
A study analyzing marine sediment cores reveals East Greenland's ice sheet underwent deep glacial erosion over the past 7.5 million years, responding to global climate change. This finding challenges previous theories on complete and extended deglaciation, suggesting a more complex history of ice sheet dynamics.
Two studies published in Nature offer new perspectives on the past behavior of Greenland's ice sheet, with one suggesting continuous presence for seven million years while another proposes it was nearly ice-free for at least 280,000 years. The findings highlight the complexity and dynamic nature of the ice sheet.
Researchers built a marine archive by analyzing annual growth increments in clam shells from the North Icelandic Shelf. The study found that ocean variability played an active role in driving major pre-industrial climate fluctuations.
The new facility will enable researchers to analyze individual molecule isotopes as fingerprints of biosphere, geosphere, hydrosphere and atmosphere processes. The stable isotope mass spectrometer systems will provide cutting-edge capabilities for studying ecology, environment and energy research.
Researchers found variable boron isotope ratios in ancient igneous rocks, suggesting changing carbon sources in the mantle over geological time. The study provides insights into crustal formation and tectonic plate movement, potentially dating back several billion years.
Historic analysis of East African ivory reveals where elephants roamed and were hunted during the 19th century, shedding light on the ecological impact of the ivory trade. The study maps elephant geography in the region and informs contemporary conservation strategies.
Scientists at the University of Vienna have developed a new technique to measure isotopes in nanometer-sized areas of materials, revealing atomic-resolution electron microscopes can distinguish between different isotopes of carbon. This method can be extended to other two-dimensional materials and has the potential to improve synthesis.
Researchers found that bonobos' diets differ with social rank in males and reproductive stages in females, revealing a high protein diet during pregnancy and an energy-rich diet during lactation. These findings suggest that the diet of great apes may be influenced by sociodemographic factors.
A new study using hippo enamel isotopes reveals a shift from C4 to C3 plants in Uganda's Queen Elizabeth National Park, associated with the loss of elephants. The results provide insight into ecological crises and vegetation changes in African grasslands.
A recent study using precise potassium isotopic data confirms the Moon was formed from a violent impact that vaporized Earth's mantle and mixed it with the impactor. This challenges the giant impact hypothesis, which had trouble matching geochemical signatures between Earth and Moon.
A team of researchers from the University of Alaska Fairbanks made a groundbreaking discovery after analyzing stable isotopes and lipid residues at prehistoric hearths along the Tanana River. The study found that early Alaskans' diets were more complex than previously thought, with salmon and freshwater fish playing a prominent role.
A study suggests that ancient Teotihuacan residents bred and managed rabbits and hares for their diet, which includes human-farmed crops. This finding indicates small mammal husbandry in Mesoamerica.
Experimentalists discovered calcium-52 had a large charge radius, challenging its status as a magic nucleus. Theoretical research using Titan supercomputer confirmed the trend without kink in charge radius graph, but even advanced models couldn't perfectly match experimental data.
A new study published in Nature Communications suggests that a combination of volcanic eruptions and an asteroid impact led to the mass extinction of dinosaurs. The research, conducted by University of Florida geochemist Andrea Dutton, used a novel technique called clumped isotope paleothermometry to analyze ancient ocean temperatures.
Researchers have found that measuring copper and zinc concentrations in blood and tissue may allow for early diagnosis of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). The study, presented at the Goldschmidt conference, showed significant changes in these elements prior to symptom onset.
A team of researchers found material dating back to shortly after Earth's formation in rock formations from Baffin Island and the Ontong-Java Plateau. The discovery sheds light on the planet's internal dynamics over its last 4.5 billion years, providing new insights into the chemistry and processes that shaped our planet.
Researchers discovered an insulating layer of air that forms near the surface during winter, reducing evaporation and precipitation on the ice sheet. This phenomenon explains why temperature has risen without increased precipitation on the central parts of the Greenland ice sheet.
Scientists have discovered a nearby supernova's ash continuing to fall on Earth, with rare iron-60 isotope detected in cosmic rays. The findings suggest another supernova occurred near the previous one, contributing to the ongoing acceleration of these nuclei.
New research uses iron-60 isotopes to prove ancient supernovae buffeted Earth, dating events between 1.7 million and 8.7 million years ago. Scientists estimate potential effects on human evolution and search for signs of impact on the planet.