Researchers engineer a BCG strain to secrete listeriolysin, enhancing T cell-mediated immunity. The new vaccine strain offers superior protection against tuberculosis, including the highly drug-resistant Beijing/W family.
The development of micro-reactors poses a challenge to the Chemical Weapons Convention's monitoring and verification capabilities. These small reactors can produce lethal chemicals with minimal signature, making it harder to detect malicious intent.
Researchers have provided unprecedented insight into the properties of super-hard ceramic materials, which exhibit unusual pliability and potential applications in fields like aerospace and medical implants. The study's findings could lead to the development of stronger materials with improved ductility and control over their properties.
The American Chemical Society's annual employment survey reveals that median salaries for US chemists have increased by 4-5% across all levels. Notably, there has been a dramatic shift towards biologically-related jobs among chemists over the past two decades.
Researchers have developed a way to engineer an alternative outer covering for the measles virus, allowing it to recognize and target only cancerous cells. The 'virus in stealth' approach uses pieces from an animal virus that cannot infect humans to disguise the measles virus, enabling it to evade the immune system and reach tumors.
A new XML-based architecture could improve access to chemical information in biomedical literature, reducing errors and increasing publication efficiency. The proposed system would link to open databases like PubChem, enabling readers to easily identify compounds mentioned in articles.
The American Chemical Society reports that chemical production and earnings have increased, while employment numbers have declined. This trend is based on the ACS's annual Facts & Figures tables, which provide detailed statistics on the US chemical industry.
Kishore, a Lehigh University engineer, received the PECASE Award for developing an outreach program to provide wireless internet access to Susquehanna County. Her work focuses on designing optimal wireless communication infrastructure for rural areas with limited connectivity.
The top chemical producers saw a significant increase in sales in 2004, with Dow Chemical leading the way at $40 billion. DuPont's sales remained relatively stable, while ExxonMobil Chemical experienced a notable jump of 38%.
A new sensor system combining flame photometer, ion mobility spectrometer and surface acoustic wave array detects chemical vapors with high accuracy. The PSU-developed CINET software reduces false alarms by correlating data from multiple detectors.
Researchers developed nanoshells that can detect breast cancer biomarkers and destroy cancer cells using near-infrared light absorption. This combined imaging and therapy method offers a faster and less expensive alternative to existing medical imaging techniques.
The American Chemical Society's national meeting showcased groundbreaking research on various topics, including an antioxidant mixture that may prevent skin cancer, genetically engineered bacteria for mass-producing antibiotics, and novel gene therapy vectors to combat chronic pain and brain cancer. Researchers also discovered a potent...
Researchers at the University of Michigan have successfully created an artificial version of mother of pearl, a naturally occurring compound that is several times stronger than nylon. By layering molecules on top of each other, scientists can engineer the mechanical properties of the material to suit specific applications.
The INEEL-designed Munitions Assessment System processes drums containing multiple chemical munitions, using digital radiography and computed tomography to identify chemical fill. The system also includes portable isotopic neutron spectroscopy for accurate chemical analysis.
A team of MIT researchers has successfully created a patch of heart tissue that displays characteristics of mature cardiac tissue, including regular contractions. The innovation involves seeding cells onto a biodegradable scaffold and applying electrical signals to mimic natural heart rhythms.
The Florida Institute of Technology has launched a hydrogen fuel cell research center with a focus on developing new mainstream energy sources. The center, which brings together faculty from various colleges, aims to pool expertise and solve complex problems in the field.
Stanford University has established a new center to develop novel nanoprobes for advancing nanoscale science and technology. The center aims to create revolutionary tools for observing, manipulating, measuring, imaging, and controlling nanoscale phenomena.
The ORNL engineer was honored for his breakthrough research in diesel engine emissions control and inter-laboratory teaming. He also received awards for developing a process to improve combustion stability, being an outstanding alumnus of the National Consortium for Graduate Degrees for Minorities in Engineering and Science.
Timothy Gardner, a Boston University biomedical engineer, has been selected for the TR100 award for his groundbreaking research on gene regulatory networks in bacteria. His work aims to optimize metabolic networks for bioremediation and energy production, with potential medical implications such as inferring mechanisms of drug action.
Researchers have discovered that nanowires composed of lithium, molybdenum and selenium atoms can detect significant changes in electrical resistance when exposed to vapors of organic solvents. This property enables the creation of simple chemical sensors that can measure the acidity of a solution.
The Geographic Tool for Visualization and Collaboration (GTVC) has improved incident planning and response for law enforcement and emergency management officials during the G-8 Summit. GTVC provided real-time information sharing, enhanced mapping capabilities, and secure encryption for communications.
Demand for US chemical products increased while firms cut costs. Dow Chemical topped sales at $9.3 billion, followed by DuPont at $8 billion. DuPont led earnings with $964 million, ahead of Dow's $469 million increase in the same quarter last year.
The team developed a genome-scale computational model of gene regulation in E. coli, uncovering surprising new details about how the cell responds to oxygen deprivation. The model includes 1,010 genes, including 104 regulatory genes, which regulate the expression of 479 genes involved in metabolism.
Researchers Eric van Sprang and Henk-Jan Ramaker developed a new control method for managing chemical reactions. The method takes into account the relationships between various process parameters, reducing the need for multiple univariate control charts and improving early detection of process disruptions.
The chemical capsaicin in peppers has been found to stimulate circulation, trigger pain relief, and even ease arthritis symptoms. It is also used in repellent sprays, marine coatings, and various drugs.
Researchers will analyze the external environment of tularemia bacteria, develop a vaccine for ricin, and engineer antibodies against anthrax. They will also work on developing drugs to treat Lassa fever and understand how plague blocks the immune system.
Researchers at UCSF successfully engineered a signaling protein to respond to novel inputs, mimicking the behavior of natural circuits. This breakthrough enables the creation of modular electronic components in cells, allowing for diverse circuits and behavior.
The UCR engineer will measure particulates in air to improve measurement methods and determine the source of fine particle air pollution. The researcher will use special instruments to quantify and minimize errors in results, aiming to provide more accurate data on air pollution.
Research by Lehigh University engineer Wei-xian Zhang has shown that nanoscale iron particles can break down organic and heavy metals contaminants in the soil and groundwater. The treatment process is more effective and cheaper than traditional methods, making it a promising solution for cleaning up contaminated sites.
A UB engineer developed software that can pinpoint leak locations on the space station and estimate hole sizes. This helps speed up the process of identifying source modules, which is crucial for astronauts' safety.
A UCI biomedical engineer has received a $1.8 million grant to create viable lung tissue similar to that found in bronchial tubes, which will be injured to simulate asthma injuries. The goal is to better understand what causes scarring in the lungs of people with asthma and develop more effective treatments.
Researchers developed a hybrid approach to improve microelectronics production, combining lithography and self-assembling materials to achieve nanoscale dimensions. This technology could lead to faster, more powerful devices with increased data capacity, while reducing manufacturing costs.
The NIST-designed optical detector and ILX Lightwave Corp.-designed optical multimeter enable reliable optical fiber power measurements. Independent tests confirm the system's accuracy, with excellent agreement between NIST and its German and British counterparts.
The EVAP-COND software simulates the performance of evaporators and condensers with various cooling agents, enabling engineers to optimize designs. This tool helps conserve energy while reducing laboratory testing and design-to-production time.
DuPont researchers developed a new way to make methyl isocyanate on site, reducing hazardous material handling by thousands of pounds. The approach has changed the company's handling of many hazardous chemicals, enhancing its environmental safety.
Scientists at UC Riverside have modified an existing full-scale chemical scrubber to a biological trickling filter, achieving treatment rates comparable to chemical scrubbers. The conversion resulted in annual savings of $30,000 per year, with potential for widespread adoption and significant cost benefits.
The Chemical Heritage Foundation has received a grant from the William Penn Foundation to support strategic planning. This funding aims to increase operating revenue and visitor numbers at the foundation's facility, as well as enhance online and on-site access to its library and archives.
Researchers have developed a new tool to study mankind's diseases by using bacteria as 'copy machines' for DNA taken from other organisms. The tool, called Red/ET recombination, allows scientists to engineer large DNA molecules and insert artificial versions of genes into living systems.
Robeson, a chemical engineer, has developed numerous polymers to solve problems, including an orthopedic splint compound that molds at body temperature and reduces scarring by 95 percent. His work also includes flame-retardant materials for televisions, aircraft interiors, and camera housings.
A new software developed by Ohio State University engineer Benjamin Coifman uses data from in-road detectors to pinpoint traffic congestion and measure travel time. This technology can improve traffic monitoring while minimizing disruptions to drivers, reducing the financial costs of traffic jams.
The American Chemistry Council predicts a second-half recovery for the chemical industry globally, with 3.5% growth in physical chemical volume expected this year. Basic chemical shipments are expected to grow 3.8%, with the fertilizer industry leading the way with a 5.0% increase.
Researchers studied how angle of riblets on pipe affect fluid flow, finding that diverging riblets speed up airflow by reducing turbulence. This study may also aid biologists in understanding the function of pit organs on sharks.
The Chemical Heritage Foundation has received a $250,000 grant from the Rollin M. Gerstacker Foundation to support its oral history program. This funding will help preserve the history of the chemical industry and molecular sciences through recorded interviews with key players.
Harold A. Sorgenti receives the Petrochemical Heritage Award for his entrepreneurial and community leadership achievements in the petrochemical sector. The award recognizes his significant contributions to the modern sciences, industries, and economies.
Researchers at Duke University's Center for Neuroengineering will develop brain-controlled prosthetic limbs and apply brain-mapping technologies to aid surgeons in distinguishing healthy tissue from tumors. The center aims to increase resolution in mapping brain regions and enable control of complex robotic actions.
James R. Moran, a fellow at Solutia Inc., has developed a laminated safety glass that can absorb blast pressure and energy, protecting people from flying glass shards and debris in explosions. This technology was recognized by the American Chemical Society's Heroes of Chemistry program for its contribution to improving public safety.
The Harvard Medical School consortium aims to engineer microorganisms to handle hazardous chemical waste and produce energy sources. By studying the unique interactions of their proteins and interrelationships with their environments, scientists will develop cost-effective ways to clean up pollution and advance biological-based energy.
Researchers are using nature's existing engineering networks to develop more efficient and sustainable methods for engineering organisms. This approach allows for the introduction of desirable traits without stressing the organism, making it a promising area of research for biosensors, enzyme development, and future medical applications.
General Motors researchers have developed a new generation of automobile plastics using molecule-size mineral fillers like clay. The new nanocomposites are stronger, lighter, and offer more design flexibility for automakers.
The 'What's That Stuff?' column in Chemical & Engineering News is one of five top sites recognized by Scientific American for informative and engaging chemistry content. The column has been widely shared among scientists, students, educators, and industry professionals, who appreciate its ability to make everyday materials fascinating.
Researchers at MIT have created a biodegradable polymer called biorubber that can stretch and snap back into shape, mimicking the elasticity of human organs. This breakthrough material has potential applications in tissue engineering, including heart tissue, blood vessels, and whole organs for transplantation.
Kurt W. Swogger, Dow vice president of research and development, received the American Chemical Society's Earle B. Barnes Award for Leadership in Chemical Research Management. The award recognizes his innovative approach to developing customer-specific plastics using molecular architecture, which has led to increased efficiency and suc...
A Virginia Tech engineer is developing advanced control systems for unmanned underwater vehicles to perform complex maneuvers, such as evasive actions and tracking El Niño boundaries. His research aims to create protected controls mechanisms for long-duration autonomous operations in the ocean.
Scientists create detailed computer simulations of brain neurons and their assemblies to understand how the brain computes. They're building VLSI chips that accurately model retinas and can produce output spikes matching real retinae, with potential applications in retinal implants.
A biomedical engineer has developed a 'sonic flashlight' that combines ultrasound images with the patient's natural appearance, enabling doctors to guide procedures without looking away. This technology could improve hand-eye coordination and reduce learning curves for radiologists.
The WTC's design had several vulnerabilities that made it susceptible to collapse, including flimsy floor trusses and weak connections in the tube frame system. The impact of the jetliners shattered support columns, causing partial collapse and triggering a fire that exacerbated the damage
Researchers at Stanford and Caltech have made a breakthrough in neural prosthetics, demonstrating that electrical signals from the parietal reach region can control movement and planning. The study enabled a monkey to control a cursor with its thoughts, paving the way for potential applications in helping severely paralyzed patients.
A team led by Jonathan M. Smith from the University of Pennsylvania aims to engineer better security features into mainstream computers through open-source collaboration.
Researchers have developed a technology to engineer proteins as widely adaptable bioelectronic sensors for detecting specific chemicals. The engineered proteins, when attached to electrodes, can produce an electric signal reflecting the chemical's identity and concentration.
Researchers identify genes from a rare Austrian plant that allow it to accumulate large amounts of nickel, enabling the potential to engineer crops to clean up polluted sites. This discovery could also lead to functional foods with micronutrients and improved crop nutrition.