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 from the University of Copenhagen's Natural History Museum of Denmark have discovered a new species of parasitic fungus on American millipedes, found via a shared photo on Twitter. The newly discovered fungus, Troglomyces twitteri, is part of the Laboulbeniales order and has never been documented before.
A team of scientists found that moisture triggers degradation of Edvard Munch's masterpiece The Scream, which can be preserved by minimizing exposure to high humidity levels and keeping lighting at standard values. This study provides new knowledge for the conservation strategy of the Munch Museum.
Researchers discovered that catnip revived the mint family tradition by evolving a new iridoid production line, producing nepetalactone with unique chemical properties.
Researchers discovered a unique Apollo 17 sample with high-temperature mineralogical evidence that formed at incredibly hot temperatures, suggesting large-scale meteorite impacts played a critical role in the Moon's surface. The findings suggest these impacts not only destroyed the lunar crust but also helped build it.
UCF professor Maria Harrington receives a grant from Epic Games to develop cutting-edge augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technology. The project aims to create photorealistic models of botanical gardens and university arboretums, providing users with detailed information about plants and ecosystems.
A new study by an international team from the Perot Museum of Nature and Science confirms that Arctic Alaskan hadrosaurs belong to the genus Edmontosaurus, a previously recognized duck-billed dinosaur. The finding reveals that Edmontosaurus had a huge geographical distribution spanning approximately 60 degrees of latitude in North Amer...
The recent 18th International Congress of Myriapodology brought together top experts to present the latest findings on myriapod diversity, distribution, and biology. The research highlights the lack of dedicated funding for threatened species conservation and urges for the establishment of a Myriapoda Specialist Group.
Researchers have discovered three new moth species in the Alps, named after legendary climbers Reinhold Messner, Peter Habeler, and David Lama. The moths are closely related and belong to the genus Caryocolum, living exclusively on carnation plants and inhabiting dry habitats.
Researchers found that birds and non-avian dinosaurs had similar brain sizes before the mass extinction, but after, some bird families evolved large-brained birds by shrinking body size. Parrots and corvids, including crows, showed exceptional cognitive capacity and rapid brain evolution.
Scientists studied 36 bat species from the western Indian Ocean and Africa, finding that different groups of bats had their own unique coronavirus strains. The research sheds light on how coronaviruses evolved and can help prevent future outbreaks.
Researchers analyzed ancient pottery fragments from 61 sites in the Baltic region, revealing distinct food preferences and culinary practices among different groups. The study found evidence of dairy products in some vessels, suggesting cultural fusion with early farmers.
A new species of bent-toed gecko, Cyrtodactylus phnomchiensis, has been described from Phnom Chi mountain in the sanctuary. The discovery highlights the importance of biodiversity conservation and underscores the need to strengthen management of the Prey Lang Wildlife Sanctuary.
Researchers from Western Australian Museum and Schmidt Ocean Institute discover a 150-foot siphonophore and up to 30 new species in the abyssal deep sea canyons off Ningaloo. The expedition, led by Dr. Nerida Wilson, used an underwater robot to explore depths of up to 4,500 meters.
Researchers have uncovered surprising complexity behind ancient ostrich egg production, tracing origins to specific climatic zones and routes. The study also suggests eggs were taken from wild birds' nests despite evidence of captivity, adding luxury value due to risk and storage requirements.
A 29-million-year-old coquí frog fossil discovered in Puerto Rico has been identified as the oldest record of frogs in the Caribbean. The ancient species displaces an amber frog fossil previously thought to be the oldest, shedding new light on the origins of Caribbean wildlife.
Researchers at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County discovered that female phorid flies feed on crushed invasive snails, a behavior previously only observed in social insects like ants. The study found that species of other snail genera failed to attract the flies, hinting at a peculiar interaction worth further study.
A team of scientists reports that most of Earth's carbon was hidden in the core during its formative years, with laboratory experiments mimicking the conditions of the planet's formation. The findings suggest that a significant amount of carbon likely exists in the core, influencing chemical and dynamic activities.
Scientists discover ninth species of dragon lizard in genus Smaug, previously mistaken for similar-looking species S. barbertonensis. The new species, Smaug swazicus, is the largest southern African lizard species described since 82 years ago, with up to 13 inches from snout to tail tip.
A new study models the life cycle of cataclysmic binaries, confirming that observable novae are just a small fraction of these systems. The research shows that most binaries spend 90% of their lifetimes in a detached state, waiting to be detected.
New study finds that populations of native fish species on both sides of Niagara Falls are genetically distinct, indicating no significant interbreeding or migration past the falls. This suggests that the falls and Welland Canal serve as effective barriers to prevent invasive aquatic species from entering the Great Lakes.
Children's museums offer a perfect environment to study early science learning. Researchers found that timing is crucial in explaining concepts, as it enhances exploration and discovery. Parents can support their children's learning by listening to them, watching their actions, and offering explanations at the right moment.
The Spiral Graph project uses a tracing method to accurately measure the winding of spiral galaxies' arms. This approach outperforms automated methods and can estimate parameters like black hole mass and dark matter content. By enlisting citizen scientists, researchers aim to better understand galaxy evolution.
Researchers propose using preserved museum fish specimens to calculate length-weight relationships, aiding in estimating biomass and studying hard-to-reach species. This method improves data accuracy by leveraging existing specimen information.
Researchers analyzed 98 historic specimens to find that different plumage patches evolved independently through time, with face and head patches evolving for mate recognition and back and wing patches for camouflage. This 'mosaic evolution' explains the lorikeets' dazzling color diversity while avoiding predators.
A new study analyzes ancient packrat middens for DNA, revealing a mix of bacterial and eukaryotic organisms, including plants and vertebrates. The findings provide valuable insights into past ecosystems and the impact of human-caused climate change.
A study found that historical wood panel paintings with developed craquelure patterns are significantly less vulnerable to environmental variations than previously assumed. The research team investigated the susceptibility of gesso layers, the most brittle component of a wood painting, to fracture under different environmental conditions.
A study found that a high diversity of fish in the Rupununi region of Guyana indicates healthy forest ecosystems. Protecting this area can help preserve rivers and biodiversity across the Amazon.
Researchers have identified microscopic structures called cassiosomes in the mucus of upside-down jellyfish, which release a toxin-filled substance into the water. The discovery resolves the mystery of 'stinging water' and provides insight into the feeding strategy of these animals.
Two brown dwarfs, one about 34 times the mass of Jupiter and the other about 72 times the mass, are found to be linked despite being 341 astronomical units apart. The discovery confirms that brown dwarf systems can be very low-mass and extremely far apart yet connected.
A new species of thalattosaur, Gunakadeit joseeae, has been discovered in Southeast Alaska, providing insights into the marine reptile's family tree. The fossil, which is the most complete thalattosaur ever found in North America, dates back over 200 million years.
Researchers extracted DNA from museum specimens using a vortex fluidic device (VFD), accelerating the process from days to hours. The breakthrough enables exploration of historical and extinct species' genetic information, shedding light on human impact on ecosystems.
A study by Dr. Raylene Reimer found that low-calorie sweeteners increased body fat and disrupted gut microbiota in offspring, even when consumed during pregnancy or breastfeeding. The findings suggest a potential link between artificial sweeteners and obesity risk in early life.
Human consumption and transportation drove Bahamian hutia population growth and distribution, shaping its diversity over 1,000 years. The species' unique genetic similarities between isolated populations suggest intentional human relocation.
A new species of Allosaurus, Allosaurus jimmadseni, has been discovered in Utah, inhabiting the flood plains of western North America during the Late Jurassic Period. The species possesses unique features, including a short narrow skull and relatively long legs and tail.
A new study links historical housing disparities to dangerous climate impacts, finding that formerly redlined neighborhoods are hotter and more vulnerable to extreme heat. This systemic pattern suggests a neglectful planning system favoring wealthier communities.
Scientists have identified wildlife corridors that should be protected to help the jaguar's survival. The study found that conservation efforts can focus on the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary and Maya Forest Corridor.
Researchers discovered that brittle stars use whole-body colour change to enable vision and navigate complex coral reefs. They found that the colour change restricts light reaching sensitive cells during the day, allowing for coarse vision.
Researchers from Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences studied two mid-sized, immature T. rex skeletons to understand the tyrant king's teenage years. The team found that the small T. rex were growing as fast as modern-day warm-blooded animals and underwent drastic changes as they matured.
A new study refutes the idea that small Tyrannosaurus rex specimens represent a separate genus, instead revealing they were juvenile versions of their larger counterparts. The research found evidence of rapid growth in these young T. rexes, suggesting they likely played different roles in their ecosystems than adults.
A new study by the University of Oregon team reevaluated radiocarbon dating results from cultural sites on 55 islands, revealing that seafaring South Americans settled first on large northernmost islands of the Greater Antilles. The findings challenge a long-held stepping-stone model of Caribbean colonization.
A study of over 6,000 UK adults aged 50+ found that regular engagement with the arts was associated with a lower risk of death. The more frequently people participated in arts activities, the greater the protective effect, with those attending arts events once or twice a year having a 14% lower risk of dying.
A new species of freshwater fish, Garra surinbinnani, has been discovered in Western Thailand's Thung Yai Naresuan Wildlife Sanctuary. The unusual fish, which features a deep gash with blue spikes on its forehead, is named after conservationist Surin Binnan.
A new species of fossil whale, Aegicetus gehennae, has been discovered, representing an intermediate stage between foot-powered and tail-powered swimming. The creature's body shape is similar to that of ancient whales like Basilosaurus.
Researchers found that herbivorous dinosaurs developed similar skull features and bite styles, such as elongated skulls and grinding teeth, in response to eating plants. These convergent evolutionary strategies suggest a trade-off between biting speed and efficiency for these slow-moving animals.
A new analysis of a dataset of over 70,000 North American migratory birds found that body size decreased in all 52 species, with statistically significant declines in 49 species, while wing length increased in 40 species. The study suggests that warming temperatures may be causing these changes as an adaptation to climate change.
Over 40 years of data show that migratory birds have been getting smaller as the climate warms. The birds' body masses, leg bone lengths, and overall body sizes all decreased, while their wingspans increased, likely linked to rising temperatures.
Researchers from Kiel University found that the invasive American slipper limpet is not the main cause of European oyster population decline in the North Sea. The study analyzed historical collections of both species and revealed that the decline began in the late 19th century, before the limpet's introduction.
A collaboration between Lehigh University and 15 Philadelphia-area libraries has made over 160,000 pages of medieval manuscripts available online. The project, funded by a $499,086 grant, features high-resolution images and searchable metadata, enabling researchers to study and compare manuscripts in detail.
A new study suggests that researchers might be able to detect black hole mergers by observing the effect of their merger on a nearby gas disk. If successful, this would allow astronomers to pinpoint the cosmic location of these events and study them in greater detail.
A new study on a well-preserved femur fossil suggests that apes, humans, and Old World monkeys developed distinct hip joint morphologies, likely adapted to their respective environments. The findings imply that navigating the environment played a key role in driving the divergence of these primates.
Lehigh University Art Galleries has received a prestigious federal grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) to create and implement a strategic plan. The 'Museums Empowered' grant will support staff training in outcomes-based, visitor-centered practices and collaboration with peer institutions.
A cache of 12 previously unreleased songs by Hall of Fame artist Lou Reed has been unearthed on a cassette tape from 1975, according to a study published in the Journal of Musicology. Cornell musicologist Judith Peraino discovered the rare recordings while conducting archival research at the Andy Warhol Museum.
A genetic study on the critically endangered regent honeyeater found that while genetic diversity remains intact, habitat protection is key to saving the species from extinction. The researchers used DNA samples from museums and wild birds to compare genetic makeup before and after severe population decline.
Researchers propose FUBImethod, a six-stage strategy for co-designing interactive experiences based on full-body interaction. Children's natural playfulness and expertise in movement are leveraged to strengthen their perspective in the creative process, leading to more effective design outcomes.
A new study reveals that moths evolved 'ears' millions of years before the emergence of bats, challenging the long-held hypothesis that bats drove this adaptation. Fossil analysis and genetic data confirm that flowering plants played a key role in shaping moth diversity.
Scientists are using ancient DNA from museum specimens to study the evolution and stresses faced by endangered species. Researchers have analyzed DNA samples from animals such as woodrats, crayfish, and songbirds to understand their genetic diversity and relationships.
Scientists with the Smithsonian have documented a new species of bird, the Spectacled Flowerpecker, which is distinct from other flowerpeckers. The discovery highlights the rich biodiversity in Borneo's forests and underscores the importance of conserving these ecosystems.
Archaeologists have analyzed King Apries I's palace fragments and found two unknown pigments: lead-antimonate yellow and lead-tin yellow. These naturally occurring mineral pigments were used in European paintings from the Middle Ages onwards, but their use in Antiquity has hitherto been unknown.
Researchers at the University of Washington have confirmed that piranhas and pacus lose and regrow all teeth on one side of their face multiple times throughout their lives. This unique system allows them to distribute stress over their teeth, enabling efficient chewing and potentially justifying the loss of a full set of teeth.
An international team is working to develop an ethical framework for ancient DNA research, incorporating diverse voices and expertise from Indigenous communities. The project aims to foster better collaboration and address concerns around the use of human genetic material.