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.
Researchers found fossil teeth of Carcharocles megalodon, the world's largest shark species, in an ancient nursery in Panama. The teeth suggest young sharks spent their early years near the coast among mangroves.
The discovery of three new Philippine monitor lizard species and a new subspecies sheds light on the immense biodiversity of these giant reptiles in the region. The study highlights the importance of museum collections and the need for continued research to recognize and name all species, emphasizing the global taxonomy crisis.
The article describes the publication of four new Neotropical plant species in the genus Solanum, governed by the International Code of Botanical Nomenclature (ICBN). Dr. Sandra Knapp, a leading plant taxonomist, separates the printing process from the publisher, enabling online-only publication while complying with ICBN rules.
Researchers discovered a rare species of solitary bee that lines its underground nests with petals from various flowers. This unique behavior provides essential nutrients for the larvae's growth and protects them from the harsh winter conditions.
New research using DNA barcoding identifies specific tuna species with high mercury levels, which can pose a health risk to frequent fish eaters. The study suggests that consumers can minimize their mercury intake by choosing lower-mercury tuna options like yellowfin, and calls for clearer labeling of tuna species.
The Field Museum and University of Chicago launched the Emerging Pathogens Project to study emerging diseases in animals, such as bird flu, malaria, and AIDS. By analyzing DNA data from collected specimens, scientists aim to understand how diseases evolve and spread between animal species.
Researchers have discovered a new genus and species of leech, Tyrannobdella rex, which has ferociously large teeth and feeds on aquatic mammals, including their noses and mouths for weeks at a time. The discovery has led to revising the group of leeches that feed from body orifices of mammals.
Researchers have developed a new web-based application called Supramap that maps genetic mutations of pathogens onto the globe. The tool uses geographic information to track the spread of diseases across time and space, predicting hotspots of disease reemergence.
A new fossil turtle species, Cerrejonemys wayuunaiki, was found in the Cerrejon coal mine in Colombia, dating back to 60 million years ago. The thick shell may have protected it from predators like the Titanoboa, a snake thought to be the world's biggest.
Researchers discovered a nearly complete juvenile Diplodocus skull that reveals drastic changes in skull shape during normal growth. The discovery provides new insights into the feeding behavior of young Diplodocus, which may have been choosier browsers selecting high-quality plant parts.
Scientists develop non-destructive carbon dating technique to analyze hundreds of museum collections and priceless objects like the Shroud of Turin. The new method uses plasma to oxidize surface of artifact, producing carbon dioxide for C-14 analysis.
A 4m shark named Cosmopolitodus hastalis attacked an extinct dolphin species 2.8m long, causing severe damage and intense blood loss, researchers have found through forensic analysis of bite marks on the skeleton.
Scientists have unearthed a rare, 450-million-year-old fossil of an armor-plated creature, known as Plumulitid machaeridian, in downtown Ottawa. The discovery provides important evidence of how annelid worms evolved and sheds light on their unique body armor.
A new genus and species of carnivorous amphibian, Fedexia striegeli, has been discovered in western Pennsylvania with a remarkably well-preserved fossil skull. The discovery provides evidence that terrestrial vertebrates first appeared on land 300 million years ago during a period of global warming and drought.
A phylogenetic analysis of Mexican cave scorpions reveals that specialized adaptations can be reversed through independent evolution. Three surface-living species evolved from cave-dwelling ancestors, highlighting the flexibility of scorpion biology.
Scientists at the Phyletic Museum of Jena University are using MicroCT imaging to analyze insect genital morphology. The research aims to shed light on the key-lock principle, which explains how male and female reproductive organs fit together, and instead reveals that it's a result of sexual selection.
Researchers found a proto-dinosaur called Asilisaurus kongwe, which lived about 243 million years ago and shared characteristics with dinosaurs. The discovery sheds light on the diversification of relatives of crocodilians and dinosaurs, suggesting rapid evolution and greater dietary flexibility.
The discovery of Asilisaurus kongwe, a dinosaur-like animal, pushes back the age of known dinosaurs by 10 million years. Fossil evidence suggests that silesaurs, close relatives of dinosaurs, may have diverged from common ancestors by 240 million years ago.
Biologists have found grizzly bears roaming into traditional polar bear habitat in Wapusk National Park, increasing competition and potential predation on polar bears. The sighting of grizzlies was rare before 1996, but sightings have increased since then.
A team of researchers has completed a new analysis of the evolutionary relationships among arthropods, providing a solid grasp of what those relationships are. The study makes a major contribution to our understanding of the nature and origins of the planet's biodiversity.
Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have successfully reconstructed an ancient human genome from a 4,000-year-old hair sample found in Greenland. The team's findings provide valuable insights into the genetic makeup and traits of the Inuk people, who were among the first to settle the New World Arctic.
Researchers from UF and Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute found a 60-million-year-old fossil of Cerrejonisuchus improcerus, an ancient crocodile relative that was likely preyed upon by Titanoboa. The study provides new insights into the diversity of ancient South American rainforest ecosystems.
Biologists at City College of New York have identified a new spiny pocket mouse species, Heteromys catopterius, found in four wet mountainous forest regions along Venezuela's northern coast. The species differs from the Caribbean Spiny Pocket Mouse in darker fur and skull morphology.
Researchers at the University of Western Ontario used state-of-the-art micro-computed tomography systems to collect detailed 3D scans of bat internal anatomy. The study identified a unique bone connection that distinguishes bats using laryngeal echolocation from those using tongue clicks.
A new model for primate origins suggests that major groups are correlated with Mesozoic tectonic features and evolved from a widespread ancestor in Pangea. The theory incorporates spatial patterns of primate diversity and distribution as historical evidence, avoiding previous limitations to fossil record and molecular clocks.
A new simulation by researchers at the American Museum of Natural History and University of Cambridge shows that regions of outward and inward migration in a protoplanetary disk can safely trap planets on orbits. This helps explain how Earth formed without falling into the Sun.
John Flynn, Frick Curator of Fossil Mammals and Professor at the American Museum of Natural History, has been awarded the distinction of Fellow by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). Dr. Flynn's research focuses on vertebrate paleontology, especially carnivore evolution and faunal succession in South America.
A 25 million-year-old fossil from Australia has provided new insights into the evolution of baleen whales. The discovery confirms Charles Darwin's hypothesis that early whales may have been suction feeders, with a possible precursor to filter-feeding in modern blue whales.
A newly examined fossil of Miacis uintensis reveals that some early carnivores were built to walk on the ground at least part of the time. The analysis suggests that adaptations for terrestrial or semi-terrestrial locomotion were more common than previously suspected in early fossil carnivores.
Researchers observed veined octopuses using coconut shells to create a shelter, traveling up to 20 meters while carrying stacked shells beneath their body. The behavior is distinct from hermit crabs and suggests that even marine invertebrates engage in tool use.
The reconstructed skeleton of Paluxysaurus jonesi enables Texans to see their state dinosaur in three dimensions for the first time. Scientists discovered that the dinosaur had a long neck like Brachiosaurus, a tail almost as long but not gigantic, and relatively long front arms.
The discovery of Tawa hallae, a 213-million-year-old carnivorous dinosaur from New Mexico, reveals that early dinosaurs originated in South America and dispersed across Pangea before splitting into separate continents. Fossil analysis suggests that climate, possibly related to latitude, controlled the distribution of some reptile species.
A rare primitive theropod, Tawa hallae, has been discovered in New Mexican sediments from the Upper Triassic period, forcing a redefinition of early dinosaur evolution. The fossil finds evidence of air sacks and pneumatization in birds, showing that these traits are more primitive than previously thought.
Researchers have discovered a new primitive dinosaur species, Tawa hallae, in northern New Mexico with nearly complete skeletons providing insights into the evolutionary path of dinosaurs towards birds. The species, likely a meat-eater, had air sacs in its braincase and neck areas.
The discovery of Tawa, a new meat-eating dinosaur, has resolved a long-standing debate about the evolutionary relationships between dinosaurs. The fossil remains reveal that Tawa shares characteristics with both theropod and non-theropod dinosaurs, confirming Herrerasaurus as a member of the theropod lineage.
A faint star Alcor has been found to have a smaller red dwarf companion, orbiting it every 90 years. The discovery was made using the 'common parallactic motion' technique developed by Project 1640, which measures the movement of nearby stars relative to more distant ones.
Researchers suggest that many commonly grown plants, including petunias, have some carnivorous characteristics, and may even digest trapped insects. The study reviews the different levels of carnivory in plants and challenges traditional definitions.
A new fossil species, Kombuisia antarctica, discovered in Antarctica, reveals that some land animals may have survived the end-Permian extinction by living in cooler climates. The discovery fills a gap in the fossil record and contributes to understanding of vertebrate survival during this mass extinction event.
Four new species of deep-sea king crabs were formally described, expanding the total number of known species to 113. The new discoveries reveal that king crabs are found in most world oceans at depths between 500 and 1500 meters.
Researchers compared four types of raptors' claws and killing techniques, revealing unique adaptations for each species. The study, published in PLoS One, provides new insights into raptor-prey interactions and may apply to dinosaur research.
A genetic tool used to identify species in seafood has found that nearly a quarter of what was labeled as tuna on sushi menus contained bluefin or escolar, two highly endangered species. The research highlights the need for clearer labeling and regulation to prevent economic fraud and protect endangered populations.
A long-forgotten fossil skull has provided crucial clues to the early stages of tyrannosaur evolution. Proceratosaurus, an ancient ancestor of Tyrannosaurus rex, shares many features with its famous descendant, including powerful biting apparatus and a bulky skull.
Researchers at the University of California, Santa Cruz, used stable-isotope analysis to investigate the number of human victims killed by the famous lions. The study found that one lion likely ate 11 humans and the other consumed 24 people during their final nine months.
Prosta Chakrabarty, an LSU ichthyologist, has landed a major grant to reconstruct the genetic heritage of heroine cichlid fishes. He also discovered two new species of angler fishes native to Louisiana, shedding light on the planet's history and biodiversity.
Researchers discovered that adolescent tyrannosaurs, including the late juvenile T. rex Jane, engaged in intense combat, as evidenced by puncture wounds on her face. The injuries suggest that Jane was attacked by a fellow young dinosaur, possibly over dominance or territorial disputes.
A new species of ankylosaur, Tatankacephalus cooneyorum, has been discovered in central Montana, providing insights into the evolution of armored dinosaurs. The fossil features a protective armor and horn-like plates, showcasing the complexity of these prehistoric creatures.
A new study reveals that two recently named dinosaurs may actually be juvenile or subadults of already known taxa, wiping out a third of named species. The research analyzed three dome-headed dinosaurs and found that their bizarre head ornaments changed dramatically with age and sexual maturity.
Scientists are increasingly involved in preserving cultural heritage objects, using non-destructive analysis and innovative techniques. Conservation science research is funded by grants from the National Science Foundation, aiming to maximize the preservation of building materials and artworks.
Researchers have discovered a new giant golden orb weaver spider species, Nephila komaci, in South Africa and Madagascar, which is the largest web-spinning spider known to science. The female spiders of this species can reach up to 1.5 inches in body length, while males are significantly smaller.
A new research institute dedicated to the Bronze Age will be established at La Bastida archaeological site in Murcia, Spain. The project aims to shed light on European prehistory and cultural heritage through systematic research and scientific analysis.
A new species of mammal, Maotherium asiaticus, has been discovered in China, providing insight into the evolution of the mammalian middle ear. The fossil's ear structure shows a unique connection to the lower jaw, similar to embryonic mammals and pre-mammalian ancestors.
A new species of horned tyrannosaur, Alioramus altai, has been discovered in Asia, exhibiting a unique set of adaptations for meat-eating. The fossil, found in the Gobi Desert, shows a gracile cousin of Tyrannosaurus rex with slender teeth and small muscle attachments.
Researchers discovered that Tyrannosaurus rex and its relatives had a potentially deadly infectious disease similar to trichomonosis, which causes swollen jaws and holes. The study found evidence of face-biting marks on many specimens and suggests that cannibalism or head-biting may have spread the disease.
The Field Museum has received a three-year grant to establish new conservation landscapes in Amazonian Peru. The project aims to secure legal protection for high-priority forests and indigenous territories, while also promoting sustainable management and financing through the REDD voluntary carbon market.
A study led by biologists at UC Berkeley found that 48 out of 53 bird species in California's Sierra Nevada mountains have adjusted their ranges in response to climate change, with some moving towards warmer temperatures and others preferring wetter conditions. The researchers used data from a survey of 82 sites and compared past and p...
Researchers found ancient flax fibers in a Georgia cave dated to around 34,000 years ago, providing evidence of an early human invention. The discovery suggests that early humans used these fibers for clothing, ropes, and baskets to aid survival and mobility in harsh conditions.
The Beach Museum of Art at K-State is receiving $20,000 in grants to support its programming for children, including arts-in-education tours and early childhood classes. These grants will enable the museum to provide arts integrated tours for school children and Growing up ARTSmart programs.
A new study published in Current Biology found that a parasite killing male butterflies caused a rapid shift in the sex ratio of a tropical butterfly species, from 2:1 to 10:1. The researchers used museum specimens and modern tools to analyze the changes, providing insight into evolutionary processes.
A new revision of the Dioptinae subfamily sheds light on the diversity of tropical moth species, revealing a unique story of parallel evolution. The study found that around 500 species evolved from a common ancestor into diverse butterfly mimics, with some feeding on toxic plants to gain protection.
A study published in PNAS reveals that a period of global warming from 53-47 million years ago led to a biodiversity boom in western North America, with many new species of mammals appearing. However, as temperatures declined, diversity decreased and many mammalian groups went extinct.