Articles tagged with Science History
Physicists used accelerator mass spectrometry to analyze the canvas, revealing a level of radioactive carbon found in 1959, years after Léger's death. This study provides conclusive evidence that the painting is a forgery.
Etienne Benson's research reveals that squirrels were intentionally introduced to cities in the 19th century as part of a parks movement aimed at beautifying urban landscapes. The presence of squirrels in cities is linked to the idea that nature in the city is essential for human health and sanity.
A new technique using Arctic fossil records reveals that Greenland's ice sheet was smaller between 3,000-5,000 years ago, with warmest land and ocean conditions during this period. This finding suggests the ice sheet may respond to ocean temperatures, providing a clue to future climate change.
Research presented at American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2013 found hospitalized children under 18 have lower survival rates during night shifts. Thirty-four percent of children survived after cardiac arrest on day or evening shifts, compared to 11 p.m.-6:59 a.m. where only 34% survived.
The SwRI-led ISET team will study the origin, evolution, and physical properties of near-Earth asteroids and their moons, aiming to better understand their potential for cost-effective human exploration. The research will also investigate minimoons, small bodies with the potential to provide insights into the history of the Solar System.
Canadian researchers identified key contributors to understanding verotoxigenic E. coli (VTEC) and its associated illnesses, including Dr. Jack Konowalchuk and Mohamed Karmali's association of VTEC with hemolytic-uremic syndrome. The study highlights the significant burden and impact of E. coli-associated infections worldwide.
The Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter Camera (LROC) has updated the coordinates of historic robotic spacecraft on the Moon, providing valuable information for planning future lunar missions. These updates will aid in the creation of an accurate lunar cartographic network, essential for human and robotic exploration.
A new study from the University of Oregon has found evidence of life on land dating back 2.2 billion years, four times earlier than previously thought. The discovery of ancient fossils in South African soil provides insight into the 'Great Oxidation Event' that marked a significant rise in oxygen levels in the atmosphere.
Researchers have identified a 30km-long fault zone near Istanbul as a potential starting point for a strong earthquake. The area, located just 15-20km from the historic city center, has shown no seismic activity in recent years.
The Purdue University R.B. Wetherill Laboratory of Chemistry has been recognized as a National Historic Chemical Landmark by the American Chemical Society (ACS) for its 80-plus years of service as a center for education and cutting-edge research. The laboratory, which has educated generations of chemists and chemical engineers, includi...
A Stanford-led study suggests that Hawaiian green sea turtles are still far from recovering to their historic levels, with 80% of major nesting sites having disappeared. The research analyzed historical and current data, revealing a significant decline in the population's geographic range and abundance.
Researchers at Ohio State University have discovered a 1,800-year-old 'Rosetta Stone' in tropical ice cores, providing the most complete picture of Earth's low-latitude climate history to date. The cores reveal year-by-year patterns in chemical composition, offering a new tool for studying past climate change.
The human genome sequencing project's experience highlights current challenges in accessing data, particularly in social sciences and personalized medicine. Researchers often withhold data due to competitive advantages or confidentiality agreements, hindering open access.
Researchers from Jena University warn of severe environmental damage in the Antarctic due to human activities such as vehicle tracks and building work. They suggest designating the Fildes Peninsula as an 'Antarctic Specially Managed Area' to reduce conflicting interests and protect the unique flora and fauna.
The editorial discusses the evolution of doping scandals from ancient times to modern-day sports, highlighting the need for continuous innovation in detection methods. Bowers emphasizes the importance of analytical skills, pharmacokinetics, and human physiology in preventing abuse in sport.
A new study by American Sociological Association investigates the rise of the top 1 percent and finds that Republican strength in Congress increases their share of income. The study also reveals a significant link between decreased union membership and higher levels of inequality, as well as a strong effect of financial asset bubbles o...
The famous Galilean thermometer was actually invented by an early scientific society founded by Galileo
The IAU XXVIIIth General Assembly in Beijing, China, has ended after two busy weeks with significant progress on astronomical heritage and new results. New guidelines for filter passbands, a redefined astronomical unit, and an international NEO early warning system were among the key resolutions approved.
Climate scientists repurpose Cold War research laboratories to track radioactivity and model nuclear bomb blasts, with applications in anthropogenic climate change. Nuclear science roots have also found a place in environmental scientists' toolboxes.
New research suggests that short stretches of piRNA evaluate cells' genetic history by recognizing sequences that have been expressed before. The study found that the silencing pattern is permanent and passed stably between generations, with each individual establishing its own pattern.
The Missouri Botanical Garden will support the development of a comprehensive online resource for plant species, improving access and analysis for scientists and conservationists. The $3 million gift from Monsanto Company will fund the garden's contributions to this international endeavor from 2012 to 2015.
Sander van der Leeuw, dean of Arizona State University's School of Sustainability, was recognized as a 'Champion of the Earth' for his work on human-environmental relations and innovation. He emphasized the need to change mindsets and attitudes to make sustainability a core of everyday behavior.
A study by University of Michigan anthropologists finds that religious rituals can foster cooperation among group members, while sacred values can sustain intractable conflicts. However, participation in collective religious ritual can also increase parochial altruism and opposition to compromise.
Scientists from NIAID outline key advances in understanding and combatting infectious diseases, including the development of vaccines to prevent many infections. They also note the ongoing challenge of emerging pathogens, such as HIV, which can have devastating effects on societies.
Chris Austin discovered two new species of frogs in New Guinea, one of which is the smallest known vertebrate, challenging previous thought that extreme body size is associated with aquatic species. The tiny frog Paedophryne amauensis occupies a unique habitat niche in tropical rainforests.
A new field is taking shape, studying scientific thought and behavior, with applications in education and understanding human interest in science. Researchers examine brain correlations, cognitive processes, and developmental aspects of scientific inquiry.
A recent study published in Science found that tropical forests' variability is attributed to historical and geological processes rather than current ecology. The research team collected data at sites worldwide, revealing similarities in biodiversity patterns between tropical rainforests and temperate regions.
A study of over 100 popular websites found that three-quarters directly leak private information and unique identifiers to third-party tracking sites. The leaked data can be used to create detailed profiles of individuals, including browsing histories and search terms.
Researchers from Jena and Prague reveal that four scientists 'rediscovered' Mendel's laws in 1900: Hugo de Vries, Carl Correns, Erich von Tschermak-Seysenegg, and Armin von Tschermak-Seysenegg. New correspondence has corrected the traditional view of genetics' early history.
The ENERCA network has published a series of recommendations for disease management and prevention of complications in children with sickle cell disease. The guidelines recommend universal neonatal screening, prophylaxis with penicillin, and transcranial Doppler scanning to prevent infections and strokes.
The study identifies three periods of rapid evolution in the fly family tree, with mosquito, March fly, and common house fly branches emerging around 220, 175, and 50 million years ago. This research provides a framework for future comparative work on species critical to society and science.
A majority of survey respondents identify as biracial but pass as black in certain situations. The phenomenon suggests a changing culture around race relations in the US, with blackness becoming less stigmatized.
This biography provides fresh insights into Teller's motivations, relationships, and driven personality, drawing from archival material and interviews with prominent figures. It offers a nuanced understanding of the complex scientist behind the 'Father of the H-Bomb' label.
The Kavli Prize Science Forum brings together influential science policy figures to discuss the role of international cooperation in addressing global challenges. The event aims to facilitate high-level discussion on major topics in science and science policy, with a focus on balancing cooperation and competition.
Researchers are rethinking the ocean conveyor belt model due to its limitations in accounting for eddies and wind field. The overturning of ocean waters may vary between ocean basins and be influenced by climate change, highlighting the need for a revised understanding of this critical process.
A collaborative effort has resulted in a comprehensive Primate Life History Database containing life history data from long-term field studies of seven species of lemurs, monkeys, and apes. The database facilitates comparative analyses of primate evolution and ecology.
A new book by NASA climatologist Claire Parkinson examines the coming climate crisis, drawing on 4.6 billion years of Earth's climate history. The book highlights the limitations of computer models and warns of unintended consequences of geoengineering, instead advocating for alternative approaches to reduce climate change.
A recent analysis found a substantial and sustained net loss of forest cover in the eastern United States, with a 4.1 percent decline over three decades. The study attributed the decline mainly to mechanical disturbance for timber production and urban expansion.
A new study suggests that cooperation in large societies is partly dependent on historical forces like religious beliefs and market transactions. The extent of punishment used to enforce norms increases and decreases with the number of people in the society.
Researchers linked malaria and bone abnormalities to King Tut's death through DNA analysis and genetic testing. The study also revealed a possible familial relationship between Tutankhamun and other royal mummies.
Scientists reconstructed New Zealand's geological history using the first complete genetic history of the moa, revealing a history of marine barriers, mountain building, and glacial cycles over millions of years. The study also suggests that many iconic species evolved solely on the South Island.
A recent study published in HortScience has confirmed that a high diversity of historic apple genotypes remains in homestead orchards in the US Southwest. The research identified 144 genotypes, including 34 cultivars brought to the region by Stark Brothers Nursery and USDA agricultural experiment stations.
Researchers at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev are developing new computer algorithms to aid historical document research globally. The project combines humanities and computer science expertise to advance scholarship in Jewish liturgical texts and Arabic historical texts.
A new study from Washington University in St. Louis suggests that historically based blockbuster movies can be a double-edged sword when it comes to helping students learn and retain information. When film clips were consistent with textbook material, correct recall increased by 50%, but misinformation from the film led to false recall...
The Phoenix Mars Mission provided new details about Mars' water history, including patterns in the ground near the landing site and surprising findings of perchlorate. Researchers discovered ice at varying depths and observed daily weather changes, revealing clues to Martian soil chemistry.
Researchers found water ice on Mars with temperatures similar to those on Earth, suggesting past liquid water and potential life. The Phoenix mission revealed subsurface ice and weather patterns comparable to those on our planet.
The vaccine-autism debate persists despite scientific consensus, fueled by internet misinformation and declining public trust. Pediatrician Paul Offit's efforts to set the record straight have been hindered by celebrity anti-vaccine advocates like Jenny McCarthy.
Researchers found that historically-defined autobiographical periods exist, but their formation depends on the intensity and novelty of public events. Public events like wars and natural disasters can categorize personal memories as 'emotionally charged' or 'epoch-defining', causing them to become entwined with history.
Computer simulations and ancient magnetism reveal that mantle plumes can move beneath the Earth's crust, contradicting the long-held theory of fixed hotspots. The research suggests that a plume may have bent nearly 1,000 miles across the Pacific Ocean, with its top moving over 19 degrees north latitude.
Sandra Faber is being honored for her extraordinary advances in understanding the properties of distant galaxies, dark matter, large-scale structure, and black holes. Her innovative leadership has driven significant discoveries in modern cosmology, including the role of dark matter in galaxy formation.
A new University of California, Berkeley web site called Understanding Science clarifies what science is and how it works, showcasing its creative and unpredictable nature. The site provides a Science Checklist to determine the level of scientific activity in various activities.
A balance between large research groups and individual scientists is optimal for success, according to a novel theory by Adrian Bejan. Successful research groups grow naturally and contribute to the whole, while solitary thinkers have flourished throughout history due to science being good for society.
Reagan's presidency is assessed under eight headings of public concern: welfare state, taxation, national security, the presidency, personnel, party politics, political leadership, and the person. Despite his impact on tax rates and national security, Reagan's legacy is complicated by concerns over big government and executive power.
A special issue of International Journal of Forecasting explores various election forecasting models, including those using political futures markets and historical analysis. Researchers discuss the importance of campaign effects and the limitations of predicting outcomes without an incumbent candidate.
A new study by NC State University archaeologist Dr. Scott Fitzpatrick reveals that Ferdinand Magellan's circumnavigation of the globe was likely aided by unusual weather conditions, including an El Niño event. This led Magellan to sail far north of the Spice Islands and miss his intended destination.
A leading neuroscientist is exploring the neural basis of creativity, beauty and love through an interdisciplinary research program funded by the Wellcome Trust. The study aims to understand how beauty and love relate and what it means to be happy, with potential implications for fields like economics and jurisprudence.
NASA's CRISM instrument provides critical data for selecting a Mars rover landing site with a mineral record indicative of past water. The instrument offers 544 spectral variations to detect minerals, mapping the Martian surface in unprecedented detail.
Researchers discovered that ancient Greek craftsmen were able to build precise devices like the balance and catapult without understanding mathematical theory. This finding highlights the importance of practical know-how in scientific development and challenges the assumption that theoretical knowledge is essential for innovation.
The 'Focus: Science and Law' section in Isis explores the intersection of science and law, examining how courts shape scientific theories and practices. Scholars discuss topics such as intellectual property legislation, witness testimony verification, and the commercialization of research.
A study published in Neurology found that middle-aged individuals with a history of migraine and other headaches are more likely to develop retinopathy, which can lead to severe vision problems or blindness. The association was strongest among those with migraine headaches and aura.