On a crisp March evening, Dr. Chanda Prescod-Weinstein illuminated the Pickford Auditorium with her powerful insights during the 37th annual Sojourner Truth Lecture. This long-standing tradition, which has celebrated outstanding African American women since 1983, once again brought a remarkable scholar to the campus. Dr. Prescod-Weinstein, a theoretical physicist and distinguished researcher, captivated the audience with her unique perspective at the intersection of science, social justice, and identity. Her lecture not only highlighted her groundbreaking work in cosmology and quantum mechanics but also challenged traditional narratives about who belongs in scientific spaces. As a Black woman in theoretical physics, Dr. Prescod-Weinstein represents a powerful voice challenging systemic barriers in academic and scientific communities. Her presence at the Sojourner Truth Lecture symbolized more than just an academic talk—it was a testament to resilience, intellectual brilliance, and the ongoing struggle for representation in STEM fields. The event continued the Sojourner Truth Lecture's proud legacy of amplifying African American women's voices, inspiring future generations of scholars, scientists, and changemakers. Dr. Prescod-Weinstein's appearance was a profound reminder of the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in academic and scientific discourse. MORE...

Underground Miracle: How Fungal Networks Nurture Plant Life

Deep beneath our feet, an extraordinary network of fungal connections is revolutionizing our understanding of plant communication and survival. These remarkable brainless organisms have developed an astonishingly complex supply chain that defies traditional biological expectations.

Imagine an intricate underground highway system where fungi act as living conduits, strategically transporting essential nutrients to plants. Without a central brain or nervous system, these microscopic networks create sophisticated routes that enable plants to share resources, exchange vital information, and support each other's growth in ways scientists are only beginning to comprehend.

Technology Meets Tradition: Baseball's New Pitch-Calling System

This spring training, baseball is embracing technological innovation with the introduction of the Automated Ball-Strike System. This cutting-edge technology promises to bring unprecedented precision to home plate pitch calls, potentially transforming how the game is played and perceived.

Unraveling the Long-Term Impact of Childhood Trauma

Emerging research continues to shed light on how early life experiences can profoundly shape adult psychological and emotional landscapes. Scientists are delving deeper into understanding the complex mechanisms through which childhood trauma can influence lifelong behavioral patterns and mental health.

In a groundbreaking medical advancement, Chinese researchers have pioneered an innovative treatment for erectile dysfunction using a cutting-edge hydrogel-based bioink. This revolutionary approach promises to offer hope to millions of men struggling with this challenging medical condition. The novel therapy leverages sophisticated bioengineering techniques, utilizing a specially designed hydrogel that can be precisely injected into targeted areas. By harnessing the power of advanced biomaterials, scientists have developed a potential game-changing solution that could transform the landscape of erectile dysfunction treatment. Unlike traditional methods, this bioink-based approach represents a significant leap forward in regenerative medicine. The hydrogel's unique properties allow for precise cellular regeneration and tissue repair, potentially offering a more natural and effective alternative to existing treatments. While still in the research phase, this breakthrough demonstrates the incredible potential of biomedical engineering to address complex medical challenges. The research team's innovative work highlights the ongoing progress in medical science and offers renewed hope for patients seeking advanced therapeutic solutions. MORE...

In a fascinating exploration of basketball's technical precision, Kiersten Janjigian, a dedicated researcher at the University of Maryland, delved deep into unraveling the scientific secrets behind the perfect basketball shot. Her groundbreaking study aims to decode the intricate biomechanics and physics that transform an ordinary throw into a flawless, swish-worthy basket. MORE...

Inspiring the Next Generation: Women in STEM Share Their Journeys CBS Colorado recently hosted a powerful Community Conversation that celebrated female leadership and innovation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The event, organized in collaboration with Girls Inc. of Metro Denver, brought together remarkable female mentors who shared their inspiring professional experiences with young aspiring scientists. During the conversation, accomplished women from diverse STEM backgrounds opened up about their career paths, challenges they've overcome, and the passion that drives their professional pursuits. These mentors served as living proof that women can excel in traditionally male-dominated fields, offering invaluable insights and encouragement to the next generation of female scientists and innovators. Girls Inc. participants had the unique opportunity to hear firsthand stories of resilience, creativity, and success, gaining motivation and practical advice from women who have made significant contributions in their respective scientific disciplines. The event underscored the importance of representation and mentorship in empowering young women to pursue their dreams in STEM fields. By providing a platform for meaningful dialogue and connection, this community conversation highlighted the critical role of support and inspiration in nurturing future female leaders in science and technology. MORE...

Long-COVID: A Persistent Challenge for Millions of Patients

A groundbreaking study from the COVICAT cohort has revealed a startling statistic: approximately 25% of individuals who contract SARS-CoV-2 experience long-COVID, a condition that can dramatically alter lives for months or even years after the initial infection.

The research highlights critical risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing prolonged COVID-19 symptoms. Patients who experienced severe initial infections and those with pre-existing health conditions appear to be most vulnerable to this complex syndrome.

Long-COVID continues to be a significant medical concern, with many individuals reporting persistent symptoms that impact their daily functioning, quality of life, and overall health. These symptoms can range from chronic fatigue and brain fog to more serious neurological and respiratory complications.

As medical professionals and researchers continue to study this phenomenon, understanding these risk factors becomes crucial in developing targeted treatments and support strategies for those suffering from this challenging condition.

The halls of the Terasaki Life Sciences Building came alive with intellectual curiosity on March 7, as students and researchers converged for an illuminating seminar exploring the intricate world of wild animal welfare science. The event brought together passionate experts who delved deep into compelling case studies, dissected the complex challenges of measuring animal welfare, and charted potential future pathways for this critical field of research. Distinguished researchers shared insights that highlighted the nuanced approaches to understanding and improving the lives of wild animals, sparking thought-provoking discussions among attendees. From innovative measurement techniques to emerging ethical considerations, the seminar offered a comprehensive look at the cutting-edge developments in animal welfare science. MORE...

In my innovative project, I sought to create a holistic approach to healing by thoughtfully integrating the precision of western medical techniques with the rich, time-honored wisdom of traditional indigenous healing practices. This unique methodology aimed to bridge the gap between modern scientific understanding and ancestral knowledge, recognizing the profound insights that indigenous communities have developed over generations of careful observation and cultural wisdom. By carefully blending these two distinct approaches, I discovered a more comprehensive and nuanced method of addressing health and wellness. The integration respected both the empirical rigor of western medicine and the deeply contextual, holistic healing traditions of indigenous cultures, creating a more compassionate and inclusive approach to healthcare. MORE...

Underknown Launches Exciting New FAST Channel Inspired by Popular Science Magazine Science enthusiasts and curious minds have a new destination for cutting-edge content: Underknown has unveiled a dedicated FAST (Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television) channel that brings the iconic Popular Science magazine to life on screen. This innovative channel promises to transform the beloved magazine's rich legacy of scientific exploration into dynamic, visually compelling programming. Viewers can expect a diverse range of content that captures the spirit of discovery, technological innovation, and scientific breakthroughs that Popular Science has championed for decades. The new FAST channel will feature a mix of original programming, documentary-style shows, and engaging segments that translate the magazine's in-depth reporting and fascinating insights into an immersive viewing experience. From emerging technologies and space exploration to groundbreaking research and futuristic innovations, the channel aims to make science accessible and exciting for audiences of all ages. By leveraging the Popular Science brand, Underknown is creating a unique platform that bridges the gap between traditional print media and modern streaming entertainment, offering viewers an interactive and informative journey through the world of science and technology. MORE...

Local meteorologist John Elliott brought weather science to life at Greenacres School, transforming a typical classroom into an exciting exploration of atmospheric wonders. With his expert knowledge and infectious enthusiasm, Elliott captivated students, breaking down complex weather patterns into fascinating, easy-to-understand lessons during his Weather 101 presentation. Stepping into the classroom, Elliott turned an ordinary school day into an extraordinary learning experience, helping young students understand the intricate dynamics of our planet's atmospheric conditions. His interactive approach made weather science come alive, sparking curiosity and wonder among the eager learners. MORE...