Articles tagged with Scientific Foundations
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.
A new project at Cornell University aims to create a 'paint-by-numbers' system to evaluate NSF's STEM education programs. The researchers will develop tools, including Web-based networking platforms, to facilitate easy reporting and comparison of results among similar fields.
NCAR scientists conclude that global warming surpassed natural cycles in fueling the 2005 hurricane season. The study found that ocean temperatures, particularly in the tropical North Atlantic, were record-high and attributed to global warming, accounting for 0.8 degrees F of the rise.
The Telescope Array in Utah will be 10 times more sensitive than previous experiments and aim to answer the mystery of cosmic rays' origin. The observatory will use fluorescence detectors and scintillation detectors to measure air showers and search for sources of ultrahigh-energy particles.
The US National Science Foundation recognized 100 exceptional middle and high school teachers with the 2005 Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching. These educators are praised for their focus on student learning, creative approaches to teaching, and ability to make complex concepts relevant to everyday life.
Charles Townes, the father of quantum electronics, receives the award for his work on masers and lasers, while Raj Reddy is recognized for transforming computer science through robotics and human-computer interaction. Their awards mark the nation's appreciation for their statesmanship in science.
A recent study published by Michigan State University's Kay Holekamp found that alpha female hyenas have higher androgen levels during pregnancy, which influences the behavior of their cubs. As a result, the cubs exhibit more aggressive and sexual play, increasing their chances for life-success.
Stanford University has a total of 230 scholars in the academy. The newly elected members include Lawrence D. Bobo, Savas Dimopoulos, Margaret T. Fuller, Larry Kramer, and Lawrence Lessig. They are recognized for their contributions to various fields such as sociology, physics, biology and law.
Geologists drilled nearly five months to recover samples of hard rock called gabbro from intact ocean crust, offering insights into fast-spreading oceanic crust formation. The discovery sheds light on the origin of oceanic crust and its composition.
A team of scientists has successfully drilled into a fossil magma chamber beneath the Pacific Ocean's crust, providing valuable insights into how new ocean crust is formed. The discovery confirms theories about the relationship between seismic velocity and crustal rock composition.
Researchers have developed nanogenerators that can harness energy from body movement and other simple motions to produce significant amounts of electricity. These tiny machines could enable the creation of implantable medical devices, smart clothing, and other applications that require continuous power supply.
The Tiktaalik fossil exhibits a mix of fish-like and tetrapod features, bridging the gap between these two groups. The discovery supports the idea that evolution from water to land occurred gradually in shallow waters.
A three-year project led by UNT will investigate voice spam prevention, network attacks, quality of service, and 911 service dependability in Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology. The research aims to establish solutions before damage is done and provide guidelines for preventing security breaches.
Researchers used a large centrifuge to mimic the effects of Hurricane Katrina on levees, finding that earth sliding along a weak clay layer helped bring down the 17th Street structure. The study is part of a nationwide 'co-laboratory' of earthquake engineering facilities and aims to help prepare for future national disasters.
At the March APS Meeting, NSLS student-researchers presented their innovative studies on biomineralization. Michael DiBiccari's x-ray analysis revealed identical atomic structures between biosilica and synthetic silica, while Samantha Palmaccio discovered that protein fibers enhance the strength of calcium carbonate minerals over time....
The study found that the 2004 earthquake was caused by rupture of a 1,000-mile stretch of the megathrust, spanning up to 93 miles at the surface. This has global implications for understanding earthquake hazards and may require reassessment of subduction zones previously thought to be at low risk.
Scientists have retrieved high-resolution climate records from coral cores off the Tahiti coast, spanning 20,000 years and providing insights into sea level change and El Niño anomalies. The longest continuous coral core is 3.5 meters long, representing 350 years of growth, and contains valuable information on climate variability and p...
Researchers will use HIAPER to explore mountain waves and rotors, improving aviation safety and predicting turbulent conditions. The project aims to understand the three-dimensional nature of rotors and their impact on climate and air quality.
The Tree of Life Project, a massive collaboration among scientists worldwide, is growing its database of life on Earth. With the help of Katja Schulz's new system, researchers and non-scientists alike can now easily upload data, allowing for new connections and insights into biological patterns.
Florida Institute of Technology is developing an interactive tutoring system to improve student competency in statistics and problem-solving skills. The software will be available in English and Spanish versions to reach a more diverse audience.
Engineers have developed a simpler and safer material that can separate hydrogen from impurities more efficiently than existing methods. The new material, similar to membranes in biomedical devices, has applications for isolating hydrogen and natural gas.
Dr. Mark Estelle of Indiana University has been awarded the Kumho International Science Prize for his seminal contributions to understanding hormone signaling in plants. The award recognizes his pioneering work on the mechanism of action of auxin, a crucial regulator of plant growth and development.
Scientists have found evidence of an abrupt ocean circulation reversal in the deep ocean, which they believe was triggered by global warming. This phenomenon, known as overturning, is critical for regulating global climate conditions and could have lasting effects on deep ocean circulation.
The University of Michigan's ADVANCE program has made significant progress in improving the representation of women in science and engineering faculties, with a notable increase in female hires. As a result, U-M is now recognized as a national leader in promoting diversity and inclusion.
The National Science Foundation has awarded $13.3 million to develop and improve the Globus Toolkit, a widely-used open-source software for distributed computer systems. The grant will support scientists and engineers at the University of Chicago and USC/ISI in enhancing the software's capabilities.
The NSF grant supports research into thin films, complex multiphase materials, and human cell adhesion. The center aims to develop more durable materials and create better medical tests and treatments.
Researchers have discovered a unique layer of molten rocks beneath the Tibetan Plateau, explaining its massive rise over millions of years. The study also reveals that this geological makeup is typical of the entire Himalayan range, not just Tibet.
RIT and Cal State will train thousands of math and science teachers through a $500,000 National Science Foundation grant. Students completing technical studies at RIT will receive financial support to pursue teaching credentials.
The National Science Foundation (NSF) supports six Nobel laureates in chemistry, physics, and economics with its grants. NSF supported Robert H. Grubbs, Richard R. Schrock, Yves Chauvin, John L. Hall, Theodor W. Hänsch, and Roy J. Glauber for their pioneering work on metathesis, laser-based precision spectroscopy, and game-theory analy...
A geologist is proposing a new approach, called GeoTraverse, to select study sites for the NSF-funded EarthScope project. This approach aims to facilitate greater scientific collaboration and public engagement by selecting areas that can be connected into one or a few east-west transects.
The National Science Foundation has renewed funding for the University of California - Santa Barbara's Materials Research and Engineering Center (MRL) at $20.52 million over six years. This grant supports interdisciplinary research, education, and outreach initiatives in materials science.
Scientists on the IODP Tahiti expedition are analyzing fossil corals to study past global sea level changes and their impact on climate. The research aims to understand the effects of human activity on Earth's environment by examining coral records from a tectonically stable region.
Researchers have calculated the math behind nearly weightless water walkers' ability to scale water walls several times their height. Tiny obstacles, such as leaves on streams or stones on riverbanks, pose an invisible challenge to these creatures.
The MRSEC research program will focus on oxide materials and their interfaces, exploring new electronic, magnetic, and chemical behavior. The Center aims to increase diversity in STEM fields and provide educational opportunities for students of all levels.
The 2005 Science and Engineering Visualization Challenge recognizes achievements in using visual media to promote understanding of research results. The contest has awarded winning entries across five categories, including illustration, informational graphic, photography, interactive media, and non-interactive media.
The University of Washington is broadcasting live from the Endeavour Segment of the Pacific Ocean ridge, showcasing extreme environments with eerie spires and chimneys. The transmissions will be available in standard-definition video on TV and online.
Nine winners have been selected for their outstanding visualizations of scientific phenomena, including the emergence of 17-year cicadas and neural signaling. The winning entries will be published in the September 23 issue of Science magazine.
Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute are exploring nanomechanical systems with a $1.15 million NSF grant. They aim to develop energy-efficient light emitters, solar cells, and sensitive sensors using nano springs, rods, and beams.
The US National Science Foundation and Japan will collaborate on disaster prevention research through shared access to experimental facilities, including the world's largest shake table. The agreement also includes the exchange of scientists and engineers.
A new study reveals that despite progress in attracting women to science and engineering fields, they still face barriers to advancement, including unconscious bias and hostile campus climates. Institutions are responding with initiatives like mentoring programs and workshops to address these issues.
The US National Science Foundation has awarded $150 million to Teragrid, a distributed cyberinfrastructure that integrates high-performance computers, data resources and tools. Researchers will have access to sophisticated IT applications and computational tools to tackle complex scientific questions.
A University of Colorado research group has received a $1.75 million grant to study newly discovered microorganisms in the harsh climate of Colorado's high mountains. Led by Professor Steve Schmidt, the team aims to understand how these microorganisms function and their potential applications in biotechnology.
Indiana University is one of nine institutions receiving grants totaling $150 million to support the TeraGrid Project, a national cyber-infrastructure for scientific research. Researchers have used the TeraGrid to study genomes, brain function, and disease diagnosis, among other areas.
Researchers have developed a method to create densely packed carbon nanotube carpets with an artificial gecko foot-like grip, 200 times stronger than natural geckos. This breakthrough enables the development of dry adhesives for microelectronics, robotics, and other fields.
The National Science Foundation has awarded $36 million to support two new research centers focused on securing the nation's cyberspace and critical infrastructure. The Cyber Trust initiative aims to develop trustworthy computing systems, improve electronic voting systems, and create a secure cyberinfrastructure for the power grid.
Computer analysis of Inka knotted objects, known as khipu, reveals patterns supporting record-keeping and state affairs management. The findings shed light on the ancient empire's organizational system, which relied on these textile devices instead of 2-dimensional writing.
Scientists have developed a detailed view of early embryo development in Caenorhabditis elegans, revealing molecular interaction networks that drive growth and specialization. The 'molecular machines' identified by the researchers coordinate proper development, with potential roles for unstudied genes.
Scientists have developed a novel structure made from cell components that can assemble into nanotubes with controllable open or closed states. This innovation has the potential to deliver drugs or genes where they would be most effective, using the natural properties of cells similar to skin and bone.
Drillers penetrate active fault zone to observe earthquakes up close, allowing scientists to study conditions under which earthquakes initiate and grow. The SAFOD project combines data from the borehole with thousands of seismic measurements to investigate plate tectonics and fundamental scientific questions.
A new study by Virginia Tech researchers has found that some products passing the National Sanitation Foundation Section 8 standard may have a greater capacity to leach lead into water, exceeding previously believed limits. The study's findings highlight the need for updated standards and regulations to address this complex issue.
The Homestake underground lab will host a comprehensive suite of experiments in physics and geosciences. The site's deep depths will enable studies of neutrinos, gravity, dark matter, and proton decay.
A US delegation of 22 researchers led by Dr. Wright participated in a workshop with Japanese researchers, exploring topics like network forensics and biometric key encapsulation. The event aimed to promote bilateral cooperation in protecting critical information infrastructure.
A new family of catfish, Lacantuniidae, has been identified with a unique skeletal structure that sets it apart from other catfish families. The discovery sheds light on the evolutionary history of ancient fish species and their potential connections to dinosaurs.
A recent study using the Panel Study of Economic Dynamics found that women's weight gain is associated with reduced family income and occupational prestige. The researchers tracked changes in Americans over several decades, highlighting the impact of body mass on economic outcomes.
The NSB presents the Vannevar Bush Award to Robert Galvin, a visionary leader who enhanced US innovation and competitiveness in research and education. The award recognizes his commitment to human capital development and public service.
The Scripps Institution of Oceanography has been awarded a 10-year contract to manage the International Ocean Drilling Program's Site Survey Data Bank, transforming it into an interactive tool for researchers. The new system will support proposal reviews and operations at sea with cutting-edge data.
A new study finds that verbal cues, such as labeling color and location, help children remember visual patterns more accurately and longer. Children with Williams syndrome also benefit from specific verbal cues, suggesting potential new techniques for learning.
Scientists from TIGR and universities uncover genetic instructions for patellamide production, allowing lab synthesis using E. coli. The discovery solves a decades-long mystery about Prochloron's role in producing these potentially important biochemicals.
Dr. Chen will use his Guggenheim Fellowship to research the structures and properties of ferroelectric and multiferroic thin films with potential applications in various functional devices. He aims to develop theories and multiscale computational models for predicting their behaviors.
Researchers have drilled a historic hole in the Atlantic Ocean floor, collecting over 3,000 feet of core samples that will be analyzed for years to come. The discovery could provide new insights into how the ocean crust was formed and has evolved over time, challenging previous understanding of the Earth's interior.
Dalton Conley, a prominent NYU sociologist, has been recognized as one of the nation's top young sociologists by the National Science Foundation. His research focuses on how socioeconomic status and advantage are transmitted through generations, leading to social inequality, and explores how biological and social factors interact to pr...