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Big, old mice spread hantavirus

A recent study by University of Utah researchers identified bigger, older mice as the culprits behind hantavirus transmission. The study used fluorescent powders and radio transmitters to track contacts between mice, revealing that larger-bodied individuals were responsible for maintaining the disease in deer mouse populations.

Standard developed for collection of suspicious powders

A new national standard for collecting suspicious powders has been developed by AOAC International, providing a uniform procedure for emergency responders and federal agencies. The standard addresses the need for safe handling, transportation, and analysis of samples from visible powders suspected to be biological threat agents.

SourceAOAC International·JournalJournal of ASTM International·DateAug 7, 2006

ISU researchers test combustion for NASA

Researchers at Iowa State University are testing combustion for NASA using a new technology called electric particulate suspension. The goal is to understand how powders burn and ignite under various conditions, which could lead to improved fire safety and the development of a new safety standard.

First powder injection molding process for pure niobium

The Penn State team has successfully developed a method to calculate optimal proportions of niobium powder to binder and temperature for sintering, opening doors to injection-molded niobium parts. The approach can be applied to other materials with irregularly-shaped particles, expanding its potential applications.

Synthesis of cage-like silica structure easier and cheaper

Scientists at Penn State University have created a novel method for synthesizing cage-like silica structures by combining different templates and heating them in a microwave oven. This innovative approach produces larger particles with improved stability and reduced synthesis time compared to previous methods.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry·DateSep 15, 2003

Metal parts made in the microwave oven

A team of Penn State researchers successfully used microwave sintering to produce machine components with improved mechanical properties in just 10-30 minutes, compared to traditional sintering methods which take long periods of time and large amounts of energy.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature·DateJun 17, 1999

Fortified Drink For Pregnant, Lactating Women

A two-year study of 350 pregnant women in Tanzania is being conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of a simple fortified drink in improving iron and general nutritional status. The drink, made with 11 vitamins and minerals, has shown promising results in improving anemia and other nutritional deficiencies in Tanzanian children.

Fiery Foils Could Create New Way Of Welding

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have developed a new form of welding using highly reactive metallic films, which can bond objects at their surfaces without damaging the rest. This process is self-propagating and exothermic, requiring no oxygen to operate, making it suitable for use under water or in airless outer space.