Articles tagged with Observational Data
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 team of scientists at the University of Missouri used small wearable sensors to gather data on how people with a traumatic hand amputation use a prosthesis versus a transplanted hand. The study found that hand transplant recipients exhibit a more balanced pattern of limb use, while prosthesis users rely heavily on their prosthetic hand.
Scientists use a modified drone with a radiation shield to collect high-quality atmospheric data in polar regions. The study shows that the low-cost drone provides accurate data comparable to radiosondes, expanding the observational network and improving weather forecasts.
A study found concurrent heatwaves occurring simultaneously in mid- to high-latitudes of the Northern Hemisphere were seven times greater in the 2010s, causing more severe societal impacts. The heat events grew hotter and larger, exhausting countries' ability to provide mutual aid during crises.
NCAR's new WindCube mini-satellite will measure the intense heating of the Sun at high altitudes, improving models of the upper atmosphere. The satellite's data will help scientists better predict impacts on communication systems and satellites due to disruptions in Earth's upper atmosphere.
Researchers developed AI that extracts hidden equations of motion from observational data, creating models faithful to the laws of physics. This enables physics-based investigations and simulations for ecosystem sustainability, among other applications.
A team of University of Pennsylvania biologists used citizen science data to create a comprehensive abundance map of the black-legged tick, responsible for transmitting Lyme disease. By correcting biases in the data, they were able to increase its value and provide insights into tick distribution across the Northeast US.
A recent survey reveals a new method using cloud-cleared radiances improves forecasting of high-impact weather events like hurricanes and typhoons. The technique is now being applied to numerical models for enhanced daily forecasts.
The MIPACT study analyzed data from thousands of participants, revealing differences in heart rate, blood pressure, and activity levels by age, race, ethnicity, and clinical conditions. The study's findings have significant implications for clinicians, providing a more complete picture of daily life and resulting health.
Researchers using satellite geodesy and InSAR imagery found the Arabian side of the Dead Sea Transform fault has been moving steadily northwards at around five millimeters per year. The studies suggest that large earthquakes may be less frequent near the southern end of the Gulf, but more investigations are needed for a resilient city.
Researchers used Hubble Space Telescope observations and theoretical models to study a broader population of hot Jupiters. The study provides insight into planet formation and suggests that these planets contain similar sets of molecules, including water and carbon monoxide.
Heat extremes have increased by 90-fold, with 3-sigma events affecting 9% of land area; record daily rainfall events also increased, with 1 in 4 records attributed to climate change. The small temperature increase has pushed up extreme weather substantially.
The study analyzed mobile phone data from 1.2 million Austrians, revealing that women make significantly longer phone calls and adhere more closely to governmental measures than men. In contrast, men are less likely to have their mobility restricted and return to normal more quickly than women.
Astronomers observe a tidal disruption event caused by an intermediate-mass black hole consuming a star, providing the first measurements of its mass and spin. The findings shed light on the elusive category of intermediate black holes, which may account for most black holes in galaxy centers.
Researchers at the University of Reading found that climate models underpredict regional temperatures and rainfall, particularly in the mid-latitudes, by neglecting extratropical wind variability. This increases uncertainty and likelihood of extreme weather events like heatwaves and droughts.
A new algorithm detects small surface deformations in satellite images, allowing for earlier warnings of volcanic eruptions. This enables more precise monitoring of over 1,500 active volcanoes worldwide, providing a significant basis for improving eruption forecasts.
Astronomers discovered a stellar collision that triggered a supernova explosion in a companion star. The collision was detected using the VLA and VLASS survey, revealing a centuries-long death dance between two massive stars.
A nationwide study of transgender individuals in the Netherlands found a significantly increased mortality risk compared to cisgender people. The analysis of national data from 1972 to 2018 revealed that transgender women and men faced higher risks of cardiovascular disease, lung cancer, infection, and non-natural causes of death.
A KAUST-led research team has developed a prediction scheme that can more reliably forecast future environmental trajectories by integrating information from past complete and partial data. This approach, called partial functional prediction (PFP), captures both long-term trends and well-matched partial trajectories to achieve improved...
Researchers developed three criteria to assess loss of prediction efficiency when modeling large spatial datasets. The tool, called TLR estimation method, provides insight into 'fit' of approximation parameters and prediction variability.
A Yale study has identified significant gaps in biodiversity maps, limiting effective conservation decisions globally. The researchers created regional trends maps to assess the distribution of 31,000 terrestrial vertebrates, highlighting opportunities for citizen scientists and government agencies to support biodiversity monitoring.
A new model integrates advanced models and observational data to track carbon cycles in agroecosystems, validating its performance and demonstrating its potential for estimating different carbon components. This solution has the potential to advance precision agriculture and inform sustainable farming practices.
Using nearly a decade of satellite data, researchers at CSU have detected the elusive ‘milky seas’ – a rare display of bioluminescence in the ocean. The study reveals that milky seas are not adequately explained by previous hypotheses and proposes new theories for their formation.
An observational study of 2,344 US veterans hospitalized with COVID-19 found remdesivir treatment associated with prolonged hospitalization but no improved survival rates. The study suggests that while remdesivir may help reduce the length of hospital stays, it does not significantly impact patient outcomes in terms of survival.
The Fengyun Meteorological Satellite program offers over 30 years of free data to support global research on extreme weather events and atmospheric changes. International collaborations are growing as the data capabilities expand.
Researchers have collected high-pressure data from deep-sea boreholes in a subduction zone, revealing pressures up to 5 megapascals greater than typical hydrostatic pressures. This discovery sheds light on the origins of slow earthquakes and their potential role in triggering larger earthquakes.
The use of additional Metop-C and Fengyun-3 C/D data has been shown to improve regional weather forecasts by filling existing data gaps. By incorporating more PMW satellite radiances, scientists can enhance the quality of forecast models, leading to better short-range predictions.
Research suggests that 'ice' flavoured e-cigarettes may be positively associated with conventional smoking and nicotine dependence among young adults. The study found that vapers of ice flavours were more likely to report smoking regular cigarettes, symptoms of vaping dependence, and using disposable non-cartridge devices.
A new framework for using community science data to monitor global biodiversity change has been developed by California Academy of Sciences researchers. The framework shows that community science data is not only useful, but necessary for uncovering real-time impacts of climate change and biodiversity loss.
The Finnish Biodiversity Information Facility (FinBIF) is a unique, one-stop-shop for all types of biodiversity data, serving cutting-edge research, public administration, business, and civil society. FinBIF has over 39 million observations of 40,000 species in its portal.
A recent study published in The BMJ analyzed global data from over 303,000 hospitalized COVID-19 patients, highlighting significant heterogeneity in drug therapy choice. Adjunctive therapies, such as corticosteroids and anti-cytokines, emerged as popular forms of management for supportive care.
A new type of aurora borealis, named 'dunes', has been confirmed by a recent study. The dune-like shape is believed to be caused by areas of increased oxygen atom density in an atmospheric wave channel.
A new study surveyed American artisan cheesemakers, finding that 71% are concerned about surface molds and colors on rinds. The majority (61%) reported quality and spoilage problems, with 39% saying their standards are not met annually. Cheesemakers desire online resources and digital forums to address these issues.
A recent observational study found that demographic and clinical characteristics are significantly associated with severe COVID-19 illness among US pediatric patients hospitalized with the virus. The study analyzed data from over 1,100 children and adolescents to identify risk factors for severe disease.
A team of scientists has identified landfalls of tropical cyclones in Japan for the period from 1877 to 2019, providing valuable knowledge for disaster preparedness. The analysis shows that TC landfall locations tend to shift and annual numbers have been increasing in recent years.
Research from the Alfred Wegener Institute reveals that Antarctic minke whales prefer to live in regions covered with sea ice, while humpback whales avoid them. The findings provide essential information for successful marine protection in the Antarctic and highlight the importance of long-term acoustic observations.
A new study by UMBC physicists finds that black hole jets primarily release energy in the molecular torus, rather than the broad-line region. This resolves a decades-long debate on jet formation and structure, offering clues to how jets initially form and dissipate energy.
The GOSAT-2 satellite has revealed unprecedented global concentrations of CO2, CH4, and CO. The full physics method used for the retrieval results shows column-averaged dry-air mole fractions of these three gas species. The data show high CO concentrations in regions with fossil fuel use and forest fires.
Tropical Storm Delta made landfall in Louisiana, weakening to a tropical depression with maximum sustained winds near 25 mph. The NASA Terra satellite captured visible imagery of the storm's organization, which was compiled into an animation showing its landfall and movement.
A new study provides a global analysis of storm surge footprints, showing they are more dependent on storm track direction than intensity. This information can improve coastal risk analysis, emergency plans, and adaptation measures, highlighting the importance of inter-state and international collaboration for disaster preparedness.
Researchers found that tree ring data significantly overestimated climate persistence in Central Europe. The corrected temperature series suggests that medieval climate fluctuations were less pronounced than thought, making the present human-made warming even more extraordinary.
A global study of over 320,000 patients found that hydroxychloroquine plus azithromycin increases cardiovascular risks, including mortality, in the short and long term. The combination therapy was associated with a 65% relative increase in cardiovascular-related mortality compared to sulfasalazine.
The Greenland Ice Sheet experienced a new record loss of mass in 2019, with a total loss of 532 billion metric tons, more than the previous record year 2012. The study, published in Communications Earth & Environment, found that the ice sheet is now heading towards increasing mass losses.
The application of data assimilation in Earth system science has improved observability and predictability of the Earth system. The methodology of data assimilation reflects the harmony between reason and experience.
Researchers estimate that 46% of total terrestrial carbon fixation occurs below ground, with a total productivity of 24.7 Petagrams of carbon per year. Belowground productivity increases with precipitation, but slows down at high levels.
A study recreated 600 years of South American hydroclimate records, revealing an increase in prolonged droughts and rainfall events since the 1960s. The researchers attribute these changes to oscillations between El Niño and La Niú events, as well as wind patterns at middle southern latitudes.
Research suggests that if physical distancing measures are relaxed too much or too quickly, hospitals may be overwhelmed with COVID-19 patients and experience exponential growth in deaths. The study found that increasing contacts above 50% of pre-pandemic levels would lead to a spike in hospitalizations and deaths.
A new study using geolocators shows that black-tailed godwits always start a second nest if their first one fails, revealing a longer breeding season than previously thought. This challenges traditional observation methods, which often disturb the birds' behavior and lead to inaccurate data.
A study using satellite data and in-situ sensor observations found that the end date of plant photosynthesis is constrained by both temperature and water limits. As temperatures decrease, soil water demands increase to support continued vegetation growth, potentially leading to expansions of regions with limited photosynthesis.
Researchers found that UAV sounding data can improve Antarctic weather forecasting, especially for temperature, wind speed, and humidity predictions. The limited flight altitude of UAVs restricts the improvement to the atmospheric boundary layer.
A recent study reveals that climate disasters increase the risk of armed conflicts in vulnerable countries, where large populations, political exclusion, and low development create instability. The research combines statistical analysis with regional case studies to demonstrate the link between disaster occurrence and conflict onsets.
The study analyzed national survey data to estimate overall diet quality among US children and teens from 1999 to 2016. Researchers found a significant improvement in dietary habits, with reduced consumption of unhealthy foods and increased intake of fruits and vegetables.
A study found that the number of US adults at high risk for vision loss increased significantly between 2002 and 2017. The estimated number rose to over 93 million in 2017, with a majority having diabetes or eye problems, highlighting the need for improved awareness of eye care.
A Columbia study published in Obstetrics & Gynecology found that patients using copper intrauterine devices (Cu IUDs) had a lower risk of high-grade cervical neoplasms compared to those using levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine systems (LNG-IUS). The study analyzed data from over 10,000 patients and found the diagnosis rate of high-g...
Researchers identified the optimal gestation week for twin births associated with the lowest risk of perinatal death and special education needs. Twins born between 32-34 weeks had the best outcomes.
A new study has quantified the risk of physical and sexual violence faced by LGBTQ+ high school students in the US. The research found a significant association between sexual minority status and increased rates of violence, highlighting the need for targeted prevention strategies.
The study reveals that a small subset of providers account for disproportionately high amounts of opioids, with the top 1% prescribing nearly 1,000 times more than the middle 1%. Most providers generally prescribe safely below recommended thresholds.
The survey found that UK doctors working in emergency medicine and general practice are most at risk of exhaustion, stress, and compassion fatigue. Doctors scored lower than average for resilience, with 31.5% experiencing high levels of burnout.
The study examines changes in FDA approval processes and regulation of pharmaceuticals from 1983 to 2018, finding increased approvals of generic drugs and biologics. The number of expedited development programs expanded while the amount of evidence required for approvals decreased.
A team of meteorologists found no consistent evidence for decadal oscillatory signals in global surface temperature observations. The researchers suggest that any apparent oscillation may be due to external influences like greenhouse gas and aerosol emissions. The study has implications for decade-scale climate predictability.
A survey of over 700 young Irish doctors found widespread prescribing for personal use, with nearly two-thirds self-medicating. The study highlights the risks of this practice, including addiction and suicide, and calls for further education and inclusion in medical training.