The 2006 AAAS Science Journalism Awards honored exceptional science reporting on Alzheimer's disease, climate change in the American West, and crop research. Winners included Stacey Burling for her story on Alzheimer's and Michelle Nijhuis for her series on climate change.
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is developing advanced sensor processing algorithms to help robot forklifts verify the location and orientation of pallets laden with goods. The experimental system utilizes two onboard LADAR devices to negotiate obstacles and hone in on warehouse pallets.
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
The DTI's 2006 R&D Scoreboard reveals a £2 billion increase in UK companies' R&D investment, driven by the disclosure of R&D for banks, insurance, media, and retail companies. The top UK companies are maintaining their pace with US counterparts, while smaller firms are also increasing their R&D expenditure.
Researchers will examine the scientific, social, cultural and organizational contexts that have shaped embryology as a science. The project aims to provide a rich description of embryo research over key periods of its history and analyze agents of change.
The Medtronic Straightshot M4 Microdebrider and Hospira's Symbiq Infusion System have won the 2006 User-Centered Product Design Award for their focus on functional obviousness, ease of operation, and creativity. The winning designs demonstrate user-centered approaches to human factors and industrial design.
Researchers developed a DNA-based computer that can diagnose West Nile Virus and bird flu faster and more accurately. The technology has the potential to be used in instruments to diagnose and treat cancer, diabetes, and other diseases.
Researchers at Johnson & Johnson Pharmaceutical Research & Development have discovered a new molecular mechanism underlying neuropathic pain, which may lead to the development of new treatments. The research focuses on specific types of ion channels called 'pacemaker channels' that initiate constant pain signals to the brain.
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.
Researchers have developed a laser-based technology that can rapidly detect and identify many types of bacteria, making it three times faster and one-tenth as expensive as current methods. A second innovation uses chlorine dioxide gas to kill pathogens on produce, offering a highly effective and efficient solution.
The CANADA-HOPE Scholarship Program aims to improve the health of people in developing countries through research. The three recipients will study healthy aging, organ damage and stroke research in Canada before returning to their home institutions to establish productive research programs.
A recent study found that adults infected with the common cold virus easily transferred the virus to 35% of surfaces touched, and even to an uninfected person by fingertips 18 hours after initial contamination. The virus was also found on a third of objects and surfaces in hotel rooms.
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.
Scientists have created a family of novel molecules called suitanes, which consist of two or more interlocked units. The researchers successfully synthesized the simplest representative of this class of compounds, a suit[2]ane, using computer simulations and self-organization processes.
A study finds that children of immigrants are more likely to pursue math and science careers due to higher economic aspirations and parental expectations. The research suggests a positive impact on the US economy as these individuals contribute to the nation's changing workforce needs.
A Kansas State University research team has received a four-year, $1 million grant to conduct curiosity-driven nanoscience and technology research. The team, led by distinguished professor Chris Sorensen, aims to develop new particles with unique properties that can be used to create novel materials.
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.
Researchers at Cardiff University have been awarded £800,000 to commercially develop a protein-based therapeutic for treating infectious diseases. The 'Resolution Therapeutics' approach aims to enhance the body's natural defence mechanisms to promote infection clearance and reduce inflammation.
Researchers at Northwestern University have successfully integrated quantum key distribution and quantum data encryption to create a complete quantum cryptographic data network. This new system offers extraordinary resilience to eavesdropping and is compatible with standard fiber optical networks.
The International AIDS Vaccine Initiative proposes new scientific and policy initiatives to accelerate AIDS vaccine development, fostering capacity building in developing countries. The Blueprint highlights the need for a dynamic global research and development program with clear spending targets and equitable financial burden-sharing.
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.
Researchers developed an electronic artwork system that recognizes eight key facial features to determine the emotional state of a viewer. The system adapts the artwork's colors and brush strokes in real-time, creating a unique interactive artistic experience.
The US Department of Energy is launching two new Bioenergy Research Centers to accelerate basic research on the development of cellulosic ethanol and other biofuels. The centers will focus on systems biology research on microbes and plants, with the goal of harnessing nature's own mechanisms for producing energy from sunlight.
The Sagittal Focusing Laue Monochromator device can focus high-energy x-rays with a large divergence, solving a technical challenge in light source scientists. It consists of two thin crystals that diffract the beam horizontally, resulting in higher beam intensity and reduced costs.
A software tool developed by Iowa State University and Ames Laboratory researchers has won the R&D 100 Award for its ability to quickly convert large 3D data sets into intuitive pictures. The tool enables engineers to analyze and work with data more efficiently, leading to improved design and operational efficiency.
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.
Researchers from NDRI found that offering innovative vocational programs with active outreach and support resulted in higher participation among unemployed methadone patients. Most 'needy' patients became more engaged when offered vocational counseling, leading to reduced relapse rates.
Researchers at HortResearch have fine-tuned gene discovery to accurately determine fruit flavors and fragrances, enabling the creation of 'Nature Identical' compounds. Biofermentation techniques can produce desired compounds at low cost and environmental impact.
The US Department of Energy has released a research roadmap for developing cellulosic ethanol, a renewable and carbon-neutral fuel source. The plan aims to overcome challenges in producing low-cost, high-efficiency cellulosic ethanol from biomass.
The Department of Energy's Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory has won four prestigious R&D 100 Awards for its innovative technology advances, including a carbon-measuring instrument, high-efficiency solar cells, and neutron generators. These awards recognize the lab's efforts to enhance energy, economic, and national security.
The Mount Sinai Global Health Center has received a $1 million grant to develop faculty and finance curriculum, conduct international research, and build partnerships with NGOs. The grant will help train medical students in global health and provide humanitarian aid support.
GoPro HERO13 Black
GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.
The research aims to harness the body's natural regenerative abilities to heal limb wounds, using salamanders as a model. The goal is to develop techniques for restoring damaged or lost digits and limbs.
A new algorithm has been developed to improve mobile data retrieval efficiency, allowing users to access data more quickly without increasing power consumption. The technique uses parallel air channels to reduce channel switching and minimize battery drain.
Researchers will develop structural materials with chemical resistance, thermal stability, and fracture resistance, as well as transparent materials that are self-healing and anti-abrasive. The goal is to create lightweight, high-performance materials for ballistic resistant armor and vehicles.
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.
A study of 97,000 Latin American deliveries found hospitals with high caesarean rates had higher rates of severe maternal illness, death, and antibiotic treatment. Rates of preterm delivery and newborn deaths also rose with increasing caesarean delivery rates.
A national survey of junior tennis coaches found that over half of parents have a positive influence on their children's development, but more than a third are harmful. Coaches identified excessive focus on winning, unrealistic expectations, and criticising as common problems, scoring them highly in terms of seriousness.
Researchers at Ohio University have successfully created the world's first synthetic nanoscale fractal molecule, which has potential applications in novel energy storage systems, photoelectric cells, and molecular batteries. The molecules are made of iron and ruthenium ions and form a hexagonal gasket.
A study comparing therapeutic communities in the US, China, and Thailand will examine client and program characteristics to understand treatment effectiveness. The research aims to advance substance abuse treatment services globally by developing a standardized model.
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.
NDRI researchers studied non-injecting heroin users transitioning to injection, finding it's not universal and influenced by individual characteristics and social networks. The study highlights the importance of understanding these factors to prevent infectious diseases like HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C.
The PACT software provides a framework that protects metadata while enabling semantic interoperation and sharing of information. It automatically regulates access to data, preserving security while allowing permitted access.
Researchers explored novel oil traits through genetic engineering to enhance biofuel performance. They identified a 'soybean event' with high oleic acid levels, which reduced saturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Meanwhile, hydrogenated biodiesel fuels showed promise in reducing NOx emissions in light-duty diesel engines
Researchers have developed a method to rapidly diagnose bioterrorism-related diseases by analyzing gene patterns in white blood cells. This technology, which uses mathematical modeling tools, can identify specific changes in gene expression within 2 hours of exposure, allowing for early diagnosis and treatment.
The team's collaborative efforts led to near real-time determination of upper atmospheric density, improving geostationary satellite orbits. The US National Aeronautics and Space Administration praised this as the 'greatest improvement in atmospheric drag modeling over the last 30 years'.
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.
Research reveals that reading and behavior problems are intertwined in boys, primarily due to shared environmental factors, not genetics. The study found that targeting either reading or behavior issues during early childhood can lead to changes in both behaviors.
Dr. Culbertson is developing universally applicable methods for detecting and identifying proteins and peptides in very small sample volumes without tagging molecules. His goal is to miniaturize chemical analysis instrumentation for point-of-care diagnostics, improving disease detection and treatment.
Minister Gehrer addresses key challenges in European R&D, including the timing of the new Framework Programme and the need for a strategy to stimulate innovation. She also emphasizes the importance of reducing red tape and promoting entrepreneurship and risk-taking through life-long learning.
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.
A University of Kentucky researcher has identified bioactive fragments of complement C3 and C5 as causal markers of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) progression. These components stimulate the development of wet AMD, and their presence in drusen may indicate high risk for progression.
The collaboration aims to develop and field-test individual lessons/modules that can be incorporated within courses or used to support entire courses. The project's deliverables will benefit digital library users with improved understanding of those who build the next generation of digital library systems.
The US Department of Homeland Security's Science and Technology Directorate has established five Regional Visualization and Analytics Centers to improve homeland security. Four universities will focus on developing techniques, tools, and collaboration to analyze large multimedia databases and extract relevant information.
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.
Researchers will develop methods to derive and exploit information from diverse data forms, link this information with stored knowledge and analytical reasoning practices, and provide cognitive readiness support. The Penn State team will also apply a cognitive science approach to understanding visual tool usage, enhancing the role of t...
The Office of Naval Research has developed a technology that allows binoculars to transmit digital voice over long distances, up to five nautical miles. LightSpeed can also be used for communication between ships at sea and platforms in the air and on the ground.
A new study emphasizes the importance of standardized training for physicians during patient handoffs, highlighting the need for face-to-face interactions and effective communication to prevent medical errors. The researchers suggest that investing in additional physician training could be a cost-effective way to improve patient safety.
A European study found pramipexole significantly reduces RLS severity and improves quality of life, with notable improvements in Vitality and Bodily Pain scores. The treatment showed efficacy using two measurement criteria: IRLS and CGI-I scale.
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.
Bar-Ness received the IEEE Communications Society Publications Exemplary Service Award for establishing and serving as editor of IEEE Communications Letters. The journal allows researchers to publish brief papers in a short turnaround time, enabling rapid knowledge sharing.
Brandeis University physicists Meyer and Redfield have been honored by the American Physical Society for their pioneering contributions to liquid crystals and biological physics. Their research has led to significant advancements in technologies such as LCD displays, with over 50,000 new liquid crystal materials developed.
A new UCLA study suggests that colonoscopy results do not reassure Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) patients, contradicting previous beliefs. The study found limited diagnostic value of colonoscopy in diagnosing IBS for patients under age 50.
Brandeis will develop a program in quantitative biology to understand biological functions. The university will hire a new faculty member and provide funding for courses, seminars, and instrumentation.
The Florida State University magnet lab has collaborated with Keithley Instruments to develop a more accurate system for measuring extremely small currents and voltages. The new AC and DC Precision Current Source with Nanovoltmeter will help engineers create breakthrough consumer products and medical devices.
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.
The CD4 Initiative aims to create easy-to-use devices for measuring CD4+ T-lymphocytes in HIV+ patients, addressing the high cost and complexity of current technologies. The project will bring together industry know-how and scientific creativity to develop simple, rapid, and affordable tests.
A team of experts, including those from the NIH and the US Department of Justice, identified 850 of the 2,749 reported missing after the 9/11 attacks using DNA analysis. The panel's recommendations include improving forensic DNA typing systems and designing processes to test novel identification procedures.
Dr. Cavanagh's donation honors the contributions of Paul M. Bass and W. Plack Carr Jr., who made his past achievements possible. Dr. Cavanagh's research involves developing new contact lenses with improved oxygen flow, impacting millions worldwide.
The AAAS Science Journalism Awards honored outstanding science writers for their reporting on global warming, cystic fibrosis treatment disparities, and other scientific topics. Elizabeth Kolbert won the magazine award for her series on climate change, while Atul Gawande was recognized for his story on cystic fibrosis treatment outcomes.
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.
Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have identified a heretofore unknown role for the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor INK4C in medulloblastoma development. The study found that Ink4c inactivation cooperates with mutations in Patched to stimulate medulloblastoma formation, even when p53 is intact.
Researchers developed nanorobot fabrication to build extremely small sensors, improving detection capabilities for aircraft carriers and mini-UAVs. The new technology is also being considered for breast cancer detection, enabling non-contact examinations.
Researchers develop wireless public transport network protocol allowing vehicles to create a communication network. The system can learn from user behavior and adapt to traffic conditions, providing a more attractive option for commuters.
A new report reveals women in 'male' careers still face significant barriers, including institutional sexism and lack of female scientist role models. The study found only one in ten women work in research and development jobs, compared to 60% of men. To address this, the report recommends establishing a platform for female scientists,...
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.