Articles tagged with Museums
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.
Adult female praying mantises in the newly identified genus Hondurantemna chespiritoi have evolved to mimic a leaf by changing color to green and developing larger forewings. This unique camouflage strategy is distinct from that of males, which retain their brown coloration and stick-like body configuration.
Researchers at WMG University of Warwick used CT scanning technology to reveal five previously unseen teeth in the Megalosaurus jawbone, challenging previous restoration work. The scans also showed the extent of repairs, suggesting at least two phases of repair using different types of plaster.
A new study reveals a third species of flying squirrel in North America, known as Humboldt's flying squirrel. The species was previously unknown and inhabits the Pacific Coast region from southern British Columbia to southern California.
A team of citizen scientists using a new tool discovered a previously unknown brown dwarf, about 100 light years away from the Sun. The object was confirmed via an infrared telescope and published in the Astrophysical Journal Letters.
Researchers propose that a storm or internal navigation 'compass' malfunction led to the bird's off-course journey. The near-perfect condition of its feathers suggests it wasn't trapped in a plane's wheel well, making ship or plane transport unlikely.
A new fossil discovery in New Mexico reveals that the earliest primates, known as plesiadapiforms, were adapted to living in trees. The 62-million-year-old skeleton shows flexible joints for climbing and clinging to branches, contradicting previous theories of terrestrial lifestyles.
Research on La Brea Tar Pits fossils suggests LA's climate has remained relatively stable for 50,000 years. The study analyzed ground and darkling beetle fossils using radiocarbon dating, revealing three semi-continuous age ranges that indicate a warmer and drier climate similar to today.
New research from the Smithsonian reveals that whales started bulking up around 2-3 million years ago, when increasing ice sheets concentrated prey in the oceans. This shift allowed for larger body sizes to evolve, as filter-feeding became more efficient with access to dense prey patches.
Researchers found that distractions detract from the experience of beauty, but sensuous pleasures can also be beautiful. Participants rated their experience of each object on a four-point beauty scale and reported personal meaning behind certain experiences.
A study by Florida Museum of Natural History found that noise pollution from gas compressors significantly decreases the populations of certain insects and spiders, while increasing others. This shift in arthropod communities could have larger-scale ecological consequences.
A green alga living in the cells of spotted salamanders undergoes molecular changes that stress its energy production, while salamander cells remain unaffected. The symbiotic relationship is unusual and may have implications for other symbiotic systems.
The UTA team will collaborate with three pilot sites to test the effectiveness of maker-based competencies on undergraduate learning. The program aims to provide experiential learning opportunities that cut across subject areas and encourage collaboration, adaptability, and creativity.
A study by Vanderbilt University researchers reveals that man-eating lions' actions were not driven by desperation, but rather a solution to a problem. The analysis found that the lions' teeth showed wear patterns similar to those of zoo lions fed soft foods.
A new study analyzing the teeth of Tsavo's famous man-eaters reveals that dental disease played a significant role in their unusual behavior. The researchers found that the lions' teeth showed less wear and tear than expected, contradicting the hypothesis that they turned to human prey due to food shortages.
Researchers at University of Washington and Texas A&M University discovered a new genus and species of clingfish using digital scans. The duckbilled clingfish has an impressive number of tiny, conical teeth, estimated to be 10 times what all other known clingfish have.
Researchers have found a carnivorous dinosaur relative with a crocodilian body plan, forcing them to re-evaluate their understanding of dinosaur evolution. The discovery sheds light on the complex history and traits of early ancestors.
A new species, Teleocrater rhadinus, discovered in Tanzania, has a long neck and tail, but walks on four legs like a crocodile. The finding sheds light on the distribution and diversity of ancestors of birds, crocodiles, and dinosaurs.
A new species of ancient reptile, Teleocrater rhadinus, has been described, filling a critical gap in the fossil record. The carnivorous reptile was approximately 7-10 feet in length and walked on four crocodile-like legs, challenging preconceptions about early dinosaur relatives.
A newly discovered pistol shrimp species has been named Synalpheus pinkfloydi in recognition of Pink Floyd's influence. The bright pink-clawed shrimp creates a loud sonic energy similar to the band's iconic sound.
Researchers have re-evaluated and re-classified Diandongosuchus fuyuanensis, a reptile previously labeled as a poposauroid, linking it to the phytosaurs. The fossil's shape reveals its connection to this extinct group of semi-aquatic reptiles that lived during the Triassic Period.
Scientists have discovered a new species of snail that filter-feeds like whales and shoots webs like Spiderman. The 'Spiderman' worm-snails could play a significant role in coral reef restoration efforts, but their presence also poses risks to corals and other reef organisms.
The study reveals a significant increase in ecological and environmental citizen science projects over the past four decades, with a diversification of approaches driven by advances in technology. From structured monitoring to 'mass participation' projects using smartphones, citizen science is becoming increasingly popular and accessible.
A paleontologist at the Canadian Museum of Nature argues that decades of research on sex differences among dinosaurs is based on flawed data. The scientist's report highlights issues with small sample sizes and statistical analysis methods, leading to invalid conclusions about sexual dimorphism in dinosaurs.
A new study from the University of Cambridge and Natural History Museum proposes a major overhaul of the traditional dinosaur classification system. The researchers conclude that Ornithischia and Theropoda should be grouped together under the name Ornithoscelida, with dinosaurs potentially originating in the northern hemisphere.
A new study confirms that sharks arose from a group of bony fishes called acanthodians, using an extraordinarily well-preserved fossil of an ancient sharklike fish. The research identifies the fossil as an important transitional species pointing to sharks as acanthodians' living descendants.
A study published in Nature found that Aboriginal populations have been continuously present in the same regions for up to 50,000 years, supporting their cultural connection to country. The research analyzed mitochondrial DNA from hair samples collected during anthropological expeditions across Australia and revealed a single founding ...
The museum's walls draw in six butterfly and eight moth families, representing 52 genera and 60 species. Bright colors play a crucial role in attracting insects, while also encouraging curious behavior.
A team of archaeologists and biological anthropologists have discovered that a matrilineal dynasty likely ruled Pueblo Bonito in New Mexico for over 300 years. The study, published in Nature Communications, used radiocarbon dating and ancient DNA analysis to show that the leadership was inherited through the maternal line.
Researchers identify a new species of ancient bristle worm, the largest fossil jaws ever recorded, suggesting the creature achieved a body length over a metre. The discovery sheds light on the phenomenon of gigantism in marine worms and its evolution in different species.
A genomic study in the lower Congo River finds that fishes are evolving into distinct species due to the intense hydraulics of the river's rapids and deep canyons. The researchers discovered that fishes living less than a mile away from their relatives are exchanging few genes, indicating strong genetic separation.
A team of biologists from Germany and Brazil have discovered a new species of land snail, Gastrocopta sharae, named after the Dungeons & Dragons goddess Shar. The snail is tiny, measuring nearly 2 mm in length, and was found in caves in central Brazil.
A UCSB scholar examines the evolution of wooden halibut hooks carved by native people of the Northwest Coast, tracing their design and dimensions over time. The study reveals that the hooks' transformation from utilitarian tool to expression of cultural heritage has driven changes in materials, dimension, and meaning.
The University of Oklahoma has received a four-year grant to increase cultural diversity and grow the representation of Native Americans in curatorial and academic positions. The program will include paid internships, pre-doctoral fellowships, and a teaching assistantship for graduate students.
Researchers from the Smithsonian and French Muséum national d'Histoire naturelle describe a complex, flexible head joint among fishes known to science. The discovery sheds light on the evolution of barbeled dragonfishes, a group of deep-sea predatory fishes with specialized traits for hunting.
A new study found that Stomiidae family of deep-sea fishes have a flexible connection between their first vertebra and the back of their head, allowing them to open their mouths wide for consuming large prey. This unique joint may enable fish to consume larger prey due to its additional flexibility.
Researchers discovered the asteroid break-up occurred 2.5 million years before the rise in marine biodiversity, debunking the myth of a connection between the two events.
Researchers at Louisiana State University have discovered a way to sequence the DNA of rare and extinct animals preserved in natural history museum collections. This breakthrough enables scientists to analyze the genetic relationships among species, including those that were thought to be lost to science.
A new species of extinct otter, Siamogale melilutra, has been discovered in China with a body size comparable to that of a wolf. The discovery provides insights into the evolutionary history and functional morphology of this ancient lineage.
The article describes the technology behind a visualisation table that allows visitors to interact with 3D scanned mummies in real-time. The table displays over 10,000 virtual slices of the mummy and uses rapid graphics processors to create volumetric images.
University Jena researchers have launched a project to create 3D representations of cultural objects from museums and collections, including historical globes and other unique artifacts. The goal is to make these treasures accessible to the public and enable scientific investigation through accurate replicas created via 3D printing.
Researchers found a unique limestone rock at the Krapina Neanderthal site in Croatia, collected over 100 years ago. The discovery suggests Neanderthals had a curiosity for collecting and assigning symbolic significance to objects.
Researchers discover Ruby Seadragons lack ornate leaf-like appendages, a feature previously considered distinguishing to all seadragon species. They also found that the fish have prehensile, curled tails, similar to those of seahorses and pipefish, which may aid in holding on to objects in high-surge waters.
Researchers have discovered a new species of ruby seadragon in the wild, showcasing its intense red color and distinctive features. The fish lives at depths of over 50 meters, beyond recreational diving limits, and relies on its red color for effective camouflage.
Scientists have determined that hyoliths, extinct cone-shaped animals with mineralized external skeletons, are more closely related to brachiopods than molluscs. The discovery sheds light on the evolutionary history of these ancient creatures and their place in the tree of life.
A new species of ground beetle, Bryanites graeffii, has been described from a 147-year-old specimen found in the Muséum national d'Histoire naturelle in Paris. The discovery sheds light on the impact of human activity on ecosystems and highlights the extinction of native insect species due to colonization by non-native species.
Research on dinosaur embryos shows that non-avian dinosaurs took 3-6 months to hatch, similar to reptiles. This finding suggests prolonged incubation may have affected their ability to compete with rapidly evolving bird populations, contributing to the mass extinction event.
Scientists have discovered a new species of coral-reef fish, Tosanoides obama, that lives exclusively within the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument. The fish is special because it is the only known species of coral-reef fish endemic to the Monument.
The National Endowment for the Humanities has awarded grants to University of Houston faculty members Rex Koontz and Julie Tolliver. Koontz will oversee a collaboration with the Museum of Fine Arts-Houston to expand its digital archive of Latin American art, while Tolliver will complete her book on Francophone independence literatures.
A new study by the American Museum of Natural History estimates that there are approximately 18,000 bird species worldwide, nearly twice as many as previously thought. The researchers used a combination of morphology and genetic studies to highlight birds with separate evolutionary histories.
A new study describes an early marsupial relative called Didelphodon vorax with the strongest bite force of any mammal ever recorded. It had a powerful bite and could eat a variety of foods, including small dinosaurs.
A significant decline in trapdoor spider populations has been reported across southern Australia, with some areas showing almost complete absence of the species. The decline is linked to intensive land clearing and soil disturbance around their burrows.
American scientists have identified two new basslet species in the Caribbean, characterized by distinctive hourglass-shaped markings. The discoveries were made using a submersible to collect specimens from deep reefs and are part of the Smithsonian's Deep Reef Observation Project.
A new species of assassin flies has been discovered in South Africa, along with the redescription of its genus. The study, published in African Invertebrates, reveals seven species within the genus and establishes a new tribe, shedding light on the unique adaptations of these predatory insects.
A new study reveals that ice age vertebrate species in the eastern US responded to glacial cycles and global warming in different ways. The research found that about 75% of animals expanded their populations, while 25% contracted, suggesting additional complexity in climate change impacts.
Researchers use advanced techniques to confirm the ancient queen's identity, shedding new light on Egyptian mummification practices. The team's findings support the idea that the mummified legs belong to Queen Nefertari, a favorite wife of Pharaoh Ramses II.
Researchers have identified bitumen from the Middle East in a 7th century ship buried at Sutton Hoo in the UK, indicating a previously unknown trade route. The presence of this rare material suggests that it was deliberately included in the burial chamber, possibly as an ornamental or prestigious raw material.
Research challenges traditional views in insect evolution, finding that female orchid mantises increase in size and color to gain advantage over large pollinators. This study suggests female predation strategy led to the differing male and female ecologies in the orchid mantises.
Researchers analyzed incubation rhythms of 32 monogamous shorebird species across 729 nests, finding significant within- and between-species diversity. The study suggests that the risk of egg loss from predators is a key factor determining incubation bout lengths, with cryptic nest behavior influencing this relationship.
Monash University scientists have uncovered evidence of how baleen whales evolved from biting prey with teeth to filtering using baleen. The discovery sheds light on the complex evolutionary change that led to the rise of filter-feeding in these massive creatures.
A team of scientists found that corals in the genus Orbicella have high genetic diversity, allowing them to adapt to environmental changes. This discovery predicts their potential survival under future climate change, making them a key species for conservation efforts.