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.
The IPERION CH project brings together European researchers and institutions to create a single infrastructure for scientific research on cultural heritage. The initiative provides access to high-quality scientific instruments, innovative equipment, and unique data, making it easier for researchers to advance their projects.
Researchers at Texas A&M University have discovered three new bird species in African forests, challenging the idea of low evolutionary diversification. The study's findings highlight the importance of continued exploration and sampling to fully document avian biodiversity.
Researchers analyzed diamonds from the Denver Museum of Nature & Science and University of British Columbia, gaining a rare look at the processes that led to Earth's crust formation. The study reveals an incredible 3-billion-year journey through tectonic collisions and volcanic eruptions.
A team of paleontologists discovered a 40-million-year-old sirenian fossil in a Spanish paving stone, providing insights into the evolution of ancient marine mammals. The 'Girona Sea Cow' is believed to be one of the oldest sea cow fossils found in Europe.
A genetic survey of nearly 450 jaguar scat samples found moderate levels of variation, with low diversity in Mexico and Honduras. The study suggests limited gene flow between Selva Maya and Honduran jaguars, emphasizing the need for conservation efforts to reconnect populations and mitigate human-wildlife conflict.
Recent genomic study provides evidence that land bridges likely connected the Americas millions of years earlier than previously thought. Army ants were chosen for their unique biology, which allowed researchers to rule out aerial and aquatic dispersal when studying colonization of Central America.
A new study finds that bird-like dinosaurs were social animals, living and dying together in groups. The discovery of a rare bonebed in Mongolia highlights the increasing trend of gregariousness in dinosaurs and emphasizes the need to protect against fossil poaching.
Two species of fossil carnivores, Gustafsonia and Angelacrtocyon, were reclassified as early members of the beardog family. These tiny creatures lived 38-37 million years ago in Texas and had features that suggest they may have eaten plants in addition to meat
Fossils previously thought to be generic carnivorans are identified as earliest known members of the beardog family, offering a clearer picture of the species' phylogeny. The research reveals that beardogs may have originated in parts of what is now the southwestern U.S.
Scientists have discovered a 54 million-year-old fossilized biting midge in amber, revealing an unusual vesicular structure at the front edge of its wings. This structure was likely used by the female midge to collect and spray pheromones for attraction, unlike modern biting midges that use simpler methods.
Research finds yellow-bellied kingsnake has three subspecies with distinct habitats on each side of the Mississippi, challenging long-held biodiversity theory. This discovery highlights the importance of understanding ecological environments in shaping species diversity.
Researchers studied placodont teeth to understand how evolution shaped traits for survival. They found that despite predictions, later placodonts developed unique and complex teeth structures, possibly similar to early human molars.
A comprehensive study of Hawaii's mesophotic coral ecosystems has documented vast areas of 100% coral cover and extensive algal communities at depths of 50-90 meters. The findings reveal unique species not found on shallow reefs, with significant implications for conservation.
Astrophysicists propose that inspiraling white dwarfs could produce a type of explosion that matches Type Ia supernovae. The model suggests that resonance in the binary orbit of the stars causes rapid jumps in energy that can lead to detonation.
Scientists have discovered a new species of butterflyfish in the deep reefs of Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument. The discovery highlights the importance of protecting and exploring poorly explored marine ecosystems.
Researchers have identified a new snake species, the 'ghost snake,' in Madagascar's Ankarana National Park. The snake's pale grey coloration and distinct genetic profile set it apart from other cat-eyed snakes found in the region.
A rare small-bodied pterosaur, a flying reptile from the Late Cretaceous period, has been discovered in British Columbia, Canada. The specimen is unusual as most pterosaurs from this time were much larger, but this new discovery provides crucial information about the diversity and success of Late Cretaceous pterosaurs.
A UT study suggests that Lucy, the famous human ancestor fossil, died after falling from a tree while attempting to break her fall. The fracture patterns on her skeleton indicate a high-velocity impact consistent with a four-part proximal humerus fracture.
The American Ornithologists' Union has recognized 33 individuals with Elective Membership for their outstanding contributions to ornithology. The newly elected members represent the global ornithology community and have been selected by their peers for their significant achievements in advancing bird conservation.
A fossil discovered in the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History has revealed a new genus and species of dolphin, Arktocara yakataga, which lived in subarctic waters around 25 million years ago. The finding confirms that the South Asian river dolphin belongs to one of the oldest lineages of toothed whales still alive today.
Researchers at LMU Munich have sequenced mitochondrial DNA from museum specimens of rare deer species, refining the evolutionary history of cervids. The study identifies novel relationships among species, including confirmation of a second muntjac species in Borneo and polyphyletic genera in New World deer.
A study published in PLOS ONE identifies three new cryptic species within the Tegu lizard family, including subtle differences in leg scale morphology and substantial genetic divergence. The discovery may aid conservation efforts for these heavily exploited species.
A study published in PLOS ONE reveals that the Southern tidewater goby, found only in three small lagoons in San Diego County, is a critically endangered new species. The goby has distinct morphological differences from its northern population, including fewer pectoral fin rays and more neuromasts.
Scientists have identified a new species of beaked whale using DNA analysis, with eight known specimens found across the Pacific Ocean. The new species is darker and smaller than the more common Baird's beaked whale, and its genetic differences suggest it represents a distinct species.
A team of researchers from the British Museum and University of Leicester has discovered new evidence in the Caribbean that reveals a complex interplay between early European colonizers and Native Americans. The findings, published in Antiquity, provide a nuanced understanding of cultural identity formation in the Americas.
A team of paleontologists, including Denver Museum of Nature & Science curator Dr. Tyler Lyson, has discovered that the earliest turtle shells were not for protection, but rather an adaptation for burrowing underground. The broadened ribs in early proto turtles allowed them to dig and escape harsh environments.
Researchers found that chorus frogs now form hybrids across a broader area of Louisiana and Mississippi, with the hybrid zone expanding over time. The study's use of 40-year-old tissue samples preserved at the LSU Museum of Natural Science highlights the importance of museum collections in understanding biodiversity and speciation.
Despite living in close proximity, Peregrine falcon pairs in Chicago remain monogamous through the years, with only one case of infidelity detected. Researchers used DNA testing and observations to study the birds' mating habits, contradicting initial assumptions about their behavior.
A comprehensive checklist of Amazonian tree species has been compiled, revealing over 11,676 known species and approximately 4,000 rare ones yet to be discovered. The analysis, which utilized digitized museum collections data, suggests that the search for new tree species will continue for three more centuries.
Dr. Guanyang Zhang and colleagues describe 24 new assassin bug species from over 10,000 specimens, shedding light on the insects' behavior and taxonomy. The discovery highlights the importance of natural history collections in uncovering new species.
A new study reveals prehistoric sea worm Oesia built tube-like dwellings on the sea floor, inhabited by a filter feeder with gills. The findings confirm Oesia as a primitive hemichordate and provide evidence of a distant common ancestor shared with vertebrates.
A new project aims to gather and communicate information on the effects of the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill on Gulf of Mexico biodiversity. Researchers will survey biodiversity at 15 locations twice a year for two years, comparing data with pre-oil-spill records.
The Oaxaca Cave Sleeper is a new genus of cavefish discovered in Mexico, marking the first time such a species has been found in the Western Hemisphere. With only 13 individuals documented, this species highlights the vulnerability of cave-adapted fish due to habitat loss and environmental threats.
A new study of the 37,000-year-old Deep Skull fossil has overturned long-held views about the early history of South-East Asia. The research finds that the remains likely belonged to an older woman and closely resemble Indigenous people of Borneo today, rather than Indigenous Australians.
Nine massive neck vertebrae discovered in Texas reveal new details about the giant sauropod Alamosaurus sanjuanensis, shedding light on its relationships and migration to southern North America. The fossils are permanently exhibited at Dallas' Perot Museum of Nature and Science.
Key fossil discoveries in Africa confirm the co-existence of multiple early human ancestor species between 3.8 and 3.3 million years ago. The new review outlines a diverse evolutionary past, raising questions about how ancient species shared resources and adapted to their environments.
Scientists have developed a new method to classify praying mantises by analyzing female genital characters. The research identified a new species from Madagascar and resurrected the genus Ilomantis, which was previously extinct. The discovery is significant as it sets a precedent for using female specimens in insect classification.
A new marine reptile fossil, Sclerocormus parviceps, challenges the idea of slow evolution. The ichthyosauriform had a short snout and whip-like tail, suggesting rapid diversification at the end of the Lower Triassic period.
A new species of horned dinosaur, Spiclypeus shipporum, has been identified with a unique 'spiked shield' on its head frill. The dinosaur lived around 76 million years ago and showed signs of arthritis and bone infection.
The Bell Museum has launched the Minnesota Biodiversity Atlas, providing public access to hundreds of thousands of plant and animal specimens. The Atlas serves critical needs like guiding field surveys, conservation planning, and enabling research on biodiversity in Minnesota.
A new species of horned dinosaur, Spiclypeus shipporum, has been identified in Montana, featuring sideways-protruding horns and unique bony spikes. The fossil discovery provides insights into the Late Cretaceous period's dinosaur diversity and highlights the importance of dietary specializations.
Berroqueña stone, traditionally used in Madrid's monuments such as El Escorial and Puerta de Alcalá, is proposed for Global Heritage Stone Province status. This recognition would promote trade and employment in rural areas of the Sierra de Guadarrama mountains.
A doctoral student at the University of Pennsylvania has identified a new species of fossil dog, Cynarctus wangi, found in Maryland. The specimen, dating back to 12 million years ago, represents a distinct species from the extinct subfamily Borophaginae.
A new film series by Sarah Betcher explores Alaskan indigenous uses of wild plants for food, medicine and construction materials. The 'Ties to Alaska's Wild Plants' project documents Iñupiat traditions and aims to preserve traditional knowledge in the face of climate change.
A study using a custom-built 'shark-eye' camera reveals that biofluorescence makes catsharks more visible to neighbors of the same species at depths where they live. The researchers found that the contrast of patterns on the biofluorescent sharks increases with depth, suggesting they may use it to communicate with one another.
Researchers found that young birds can produce mature flight strokes despite underdeveloped muscles and wings. Leg-wing cooperation enables juvenile birds to flap like adults, improving traction as they climb.
A new DNA analysis suggests that North American mammoths interbred more frequently than previously thought, blurring the lines between species. The study found that woolly and Columbian mammoths could produce fertile offspring, contradicting historical notions of separate species.
Scientists find 21-million-year-old fossil evidence of mammals traveling from South America to North America. The discovery sheds light on the evolution of Western Hemisphere monkeys, revealing they stopped migrating north due to a barrier of North American vegetation.
A 13-million-year-old fossil discovery suggests that South American and Indian species evolved separately to acquire protruding, 'telescoped' eyes. This finding provides insight into the parallel evolution of long-snouted gavialoids in these regions.
New research suggests that human brain size and body size are genetically linked, with increased brain size leading to a correlated response in body size. This phenomenon played a significant role in the evolution of larger brains and bodies in humans.
A team of entomologists has discovered 12 new scuttle fly species in Los Angeles, showcasing the city's impressive insect diversity. The BioSCAN project, launched in 2013, aims to document urban faunal collections, emphasizing the importance of constant scientific curiosity and attention to rapidly changing environments.
Scientists found that ancient mammal relatives, known as therapsids, adapted to drastic climate change by breeding younger and having shorter life expectancies. This allowed them to thrive in the aftermath of mass extinction events.
Scientists have discovered a new species of dark-winged fungus gnat in Germany's Alexander Koenig Museum garden, characterized by its unique reddish, black, and yellowish-white hues. The species was identified through DNA barcoding and shows strong connections to New Zealand relatives.
Researchers from Yale, Oxford, and Imperial College London describe a new species of ancient arthropod that carried its young in capsules tethered to its body. The creature, named Aquilonifer spinosus, lived about 430 million years ago and had unique brooding strategies to protect its eggs and embryos from predators.
A team of international scientists has created the first 3D atlas of the dodo's skeletal anatomy, using two exceptional skeletons that have remained unstudied for over a century. The atlas provides accurate relative proportions and describes several previously unknown bones, opening new pathways for paleobiology and evolution research.
The discovery of Synemporion keana, an extinct Hawaiian bat, reveals a second native land mammal on the islands, which coexisted with the hoary bat for thousands of years. The species' extinction is linked to human colonization and invasive non-native species.
A Yale-led team of paleontologists has determined that the Tully Monster, a 300-million-year-old animal with teeth at the end of a narrow head extension and eyes on either side of a long bar, was a vertebrate with gills and a notochord. The discovery sheds light on the creature's likely predatory lifestyle.
The Hawai'i Undersea Research Laboratory (HURL) has successfully recovered a bronze bell from the I-400, a World War II-era Imperial Japanese Navy mega-submarine. The recovery was made possible through a collaboration between HURL and other organizations, including NOAA and the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum.
Field Museum scientists, along with colleagues, have solved the mystery of the Tully monster, a bizarre aquatic animal found in Illinois 307 million years ago. The team determined that the monsters are jawless fish similar to today's lampreys, based on analysis of over 2,000 specimens from the Field's collection and X-ray scans.
Researchers confirm medullary bone, a gender-specific reproductive tissue found in birds, in a 68 million-year-old T. rex fossil. This discovery sheds light on the evolution of egg-laying in modern birds and provides a new tool for identifying dinosaur sex.