News on research driving industry and manufacturing. Covers petrochemical emissions, food innovation, controlled-explosion labs, and industry-academic partnerships.
The American Heart Association has prepared 16 news releases and 32 news tips for the 72nd Scientific Sessions. Logistical information includes room locations, telephone numbers, hours of operation, and name badge requirements. Reporters can access news conferences, media availabilities, and exhibitions at specific times.
Acoustical technology developed at CU-Boulder uses high-frequency pulses to detect fouling deposits on membranes, allowing for more efficient purification of drinking water. The technique has the potential to reduce chemicals needed and improve membrane performance in applications such as seawater desalination.
The University of Washington's HIT Lab has developed Shared Space, a technology that combines virtual reality with the physical world. Users can see digital images and interact with others and the environment simultaneously, enabling natural collaboration.
Airline safety expert Arnold I. Barnett says flying with major carriers on the same route doesn't significantly reduce risk. The death-risk statistic for US domestic jet carriers is 1 in 7 million, and frequent flyers face minimal cumulative risk.
Researchers at Harvard Medical School have identified a new class of mitosis inhibitors, including the molecule monastrol, which disrupts the mitotic spindle apparatus and arrests cell division. This discovery offers a promising lead for developing more specific and effective chemotherapies.
The American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists (AAPS) recognizes outstanding researchers with its annual awards. Joseph R. Robinson receives the Distinguished Pharmaceutical Scientist Award for his work on controlled drug delivery and ocular drug disposition, while Charles Russell Middaugh wins the Research Achievement Award in ...
The American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists (AAPS) has selected ten individuals for its prestigious Fellow status in recognition of their significant contributions to the field of pharmaceutical sciences. The new AAPS Fellows include experts from academia, industry, and government institutions worldwide.
A new study by Princeton University researchers shows that switching from leaded to unleaded gasoline can reduce blood lead levels to an average of three micrograms per deciliter, well below the 10 ug/dL threshold considered cause for concern in the US. This reduction is significant, especially in countries still using leaded gasoline.
A new sequencing technique allows scientists to determine the linear order of building blocks in complex sugars, a crucial step in understanding their biological functions. This breakthrough could lead to significant advances in fields such as glycosaminoglycans and tissue development.
Researchers at Northwestern University create a new technology called nano-plotter, which enables precise placement of multiple molecules on a solid substrate. This innovation could lead to advancements in molecule-based electronics, molecular diagnostics, and catalysis.
RADM Gaffney is recognized for his efforts to promote quality, forward-looking and innovative research administration through the Gulf Coast Initiative of 1998 and industry-academia partnerships. His work resulted in new partnerships and increased dialog between regions and ONR.
A recent report from UC San Francisco reveals a decline in tobacco industry influence in California, with decreasing campaign contributions and revenue. The report finds that Republicans received 81% of tobacco money in the 1997-1998 election cycle, despite Democrats controlling both houses of the Legislature.
Pacifichem 2000 will bring together leading researchers in the Pacific Rim countries to discuss topics such as food antioxidants, extremophiles and organic superconductors. The conference features over 179 symposia on various subjects including medical applications, nanomaterials and marine natural products.
A new device called the chaos mirror is invented to improve infrared networking technology in crowded offices. It uses a box enclosing seven highly reflective surfaces to split narrow incoming beams into a widely spread array of reflected beams, vastly increasing the chances of beam finding its target.
The study found elevated levels of DDE and mercury in bald eagle eggs on Kiska Island, but not on other islands. Seabirds are thought to be the major source of contamination due to their diet rich in fish from contaminated water.
A new watershed model, GISWA, can help predict the effects of forest practices on watersheds and wildlife habitat. The model simulates hydrologic conditions at thousands of locations within a single watershed to provide a detailed representation of water movement.
The American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists has premiered an online database of the abstracts to be presented at the upcoming annual meeting. The database includes all invited and contributed paper abstracts, with a unique personal itinerary feature allowing attendees to plan their meetings.
Researchers are developing tiny, chip-based laboratories to speed up the search for new medicines by analyzing thousands of compounds simultaneously. This microscale analysis will enable faster, more cost-effective discovery in the fields of materials science and chemistry.
A Cornell University research team led by Paulette Clancy is developing novel semiconducting materials using polymers, which could lead to cheaper and more portable 'throwaway electronics.' The project aims to create new materials for light-emitting diode displays and flexible laptop screens.
A study by the Georgia Institute of Technology found that the cost of applying for air emissions permits under new national regulations is lower than industry estimates. The survey of 500 U.S. manufacturers revealed that companies spent an average of $113 per employee to apply for permits, with total estimated costs of approximately $1...
Two newly identified metabolites of the gasoline additive MTBE have been found in human urine samples. These findings suggest that humans are exposed to MTBE and its byproducts through inhalation, and that further research is needed to understand their impact on human health.
Researchers found that organic particles increase cloud droplet formation, making clouds more reflective of sunlight. This results in a 20% increase in droplets and a 6% reduction in droplet size, leading to a 1% decrease in Earth's temperature, potentially offsetting climate warming effects
Sandia National Laboratories is showcasing cutting-edge MicroElectricalMechanical Systems (MEMs) innovations at the Santa Clara show. The technology has vast applications in medical treatment, anti-terrorism, and engineering systems, with potential annual market value of $100 billion by 2030.
Gene-repair pioneer Eric Kmiec has established the University of Delaware's Laboratory of Gene Therapy, focusing on sickle-cell anemia, Huntington's Disease and food-crop advances. His technique repairs genetic mutations by stitching mutated sequences back together in their proper order.
A key study by Dr. Peter C. Molan presents the latest research on honey's effectiveness in treating wounds caused by antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria. The results show that honey dressings can rapidly clear bacteria from infected wounds, making it a potential treatment for necrotising fasciitis.
Researchers at Georgia Tech are using MRI to study textile drying and moisture flow in carpets, with potential benefits including faster drying times, reduced energy consumption, and less prone to mildew. The technique also allows for the analysis of fabric structures and wicking of sweat away from the body.
A study of 182 Oklahoma City bombing survivors revealed high rates of postdisaster psychiatric disorders, with 45% experiencing symptoms in the six months following the explosion. The investigation also identified specific symptoms that indicated the need for treatment, including avoidance and numbing symptoms.
Researchers have found detectable levels of tributyltin in Gulf oysters, which can be toxic to crustaceans. Additionally, the Mississippi River has shown improvement in water quality, with a decrease in volatile organic compounds detected since 20 years ago.
Researchers have developed a one-step process to create thermoplastic nanocomposites from cellulose fibers. The resulting material retains the virtues of cellulose fibers while combining them with thermoplastics' strengths, including resistance to water and heat.
INEEL researchers develop polyphosphazene membranes for efficient chemical separation and waste minimization, offering stability up to 300 degrees Celsius. The hybrid membrane combines organic and inorganic molecules for improved durability and versatility.
The partnership will focus on materials science, biotechnology, Earth sciences, propulsion, optics, and other areas that support NASA's mission. The center aims to reduce expenses and maximize scientific return by sharing facilities and ideas.
Infrared microspectroscopy enables the analysis of localized chemical content in extremely small specimens. Kansas State University chemist David Wetzel and co-author Steven LeVine have pushed the technology's applications to the forefront of biological research.
Researchers at Purdue University have developed a mathematical method that may speed the emergence of hard machining, which could make ultrahard metal parts like bearings and jet engine components more reliable and long-lasting. The new method promises to reduce waste, eliminate polluting oils, and minimize thermal damage.
Researchers from around the world are measuring fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in Atlanta's air to understand its health effects and sources. The study aims to develop better instruments for measuring PM2.5 and its composition, with potential implications for controlling ozone and PM-related pollution.
The International Chemical Congress of Pacific Basin Societies will explore cutting-edge research in therapeutics, materials, and astrobiology. Over 179 symposia are planned to foster industrial development, improve environments, and enhance the well-being of people from Pacific Rim countries.
The NSF award establishes a Center for Behavioral Neuroscience, focusing on complex social behaviors and emotions. The center will study brain mechanisms and develop powerful new technologies.
The INEEL is developing a roadmap for vadose zone management, leveraging expertise from DOE sites, contractors, industry, and universities to enhance timely delivery of products. The goal is sound environmental stewardship through understanding based on defensible science.
Researchers found that cinnamon is lethal to E. coli O157:H7 bacteria in liquid, including unpasteurized juices. The study suggests that cinnamon may help control foodborne illnesses and potentially replace preservatives.
A $1.4 million project aims to create an advanced artificial knee prosthesis, drawing on expertise from US and Russian nuclear labs. The device will be designed to adapt to the wearer's movement and provide a more natural gait.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have improved the chemical oxygen-iodine laser (COIL), enhancing its performance and reducing operating costs. The device can now be scaled to high power levels and has a wavelength suitable for remote fiber-optic delivery.
Researchers have developed a system to network up to 30 remote sensors along a single fiber optic cable, allowing for periodic assessments of structural strain. The Navy and Federal Highway Administration are exploring the use of this technology to schedule maintenance and update design codes.
The National Science Board has approved a new Science and Technology Center to develop environmentally friendly processes using alternative solvents. The center, led by Dr. Joseph DeSimone and Dr. Ruben Carbonell, aims to reduce organic waste generated in manufacturing and chemical production.
Engineers at Purdue University have developed a training program that instructs workers on techniques to minimize styrene emissions. The program resulted in a 42.4% decrease in emissions, with an additional 19% reduction in the quantity of styrene needed for the job.
Researchers at Michigan Tech have genetically engineered a new breed of aspen that produces up to 15% more cellulose and grows significantly faster than regular aspen. This could translate into huge gains for the pulp and paper industry, with potential savings of billions of dollars.
Driver fatigue is a leading threat to road safety, with at least 100,000 crashes and 1,500 fatalities attributed to it annually. New research from Washington University in St. Louis suggests that fatigued drivers become increasingly susceptible to accidents long before they fall asleep at the wheel.
The Pacific Northwest National Laboratory has won six spots on the 1998 R&D 100 list, recognized for their innovative technologies that have transformed industries such as personal heating, fuel cell-powered cars and environmental conservation. The researchers' advancements include tiny personal heating systems, advanced chemical m...
A study published in Science found that European attitudes towards GM foods are driven by media coverage, with Europeans being more likely to view the technology as menacing or dangerous. In contrast, US citizens showed less skepticism due to higher science literacy and trust in regulatory agencies.
Researchers discovered a new class of microstructured materials that self-assemble into flat, two-dimensional crystallites made from tiny plastic beads. Under the right conditions, these beads seem to defy the basic physical principle of oppositely charged objects attracting.
BioServe will fly three bioprocessing payloads and industry experiments, including a National Institutes of Health experiment and two K-12 student outreach projects, on the space shuttle Columbia. The experiments focus on developing new wastewater treatments and improving techniques used to evaluate pharmaceutical compounds.
Researchers have produced two blood factors that treat most patients with blood clotting disorders. The production of human blood proteins in plants eliminates disease transmission risk, making lifesaving treatments more accessible. This technology is expected to be 10 times cheaper than current methods and provides a stable production...
Scientists at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory have created a new method to produce valuable industrial enzymes in plants, reducing costs and increasing efficiency. The process uses transgenic potato plants to generate cellulase enzymes, which can be used in various applications, including food processing and pharmaceuticals.
The first ever-established complete clone-based physical map of a plant genome is published for Arabidopsis thaliana. The map covers the entire nuclear genome and is assembled entirely on the basis of BAC clones, offering strongly increased resolution.
Researchers found mitral-valve prolapse is substantially less common than initially believed, affecting about 2% of the population, not 5-35%. The condition also has lower rates of associated complications like stroke and heart failure compared to previous estimates.
Researchers at Georgia Tech have designed 'Quiet Curtains' that combine audio privacy and aesthetics to reduce nocturnal noise in nursing homes. The high-tech drapes can block unwanted decibels by up to 12 dB, providing a significant improvement in patients' rest and quality of life.
Research reveals penguins can quickly acclimate to tourists visiting their breeding colonies, with reduced stress levels after brief exposure. After 10 days of repeated human visits, penguin stress levels decreased significantly, suggesting a possible long-term adaptation to ecotourism.
A genetically altered vaccine has been approved for commercial use to prevent swine pneumonia, a major cause of production losses in the swine industry. The vaccine, developed by Virginia Tech researcher Thomas Inzana, confers excellent immunity in pigs with minimal side-effects.
The sensor uses sound waves to analyze the sugar content of the melon, with promising results showing a correlation between signal frequency and actual sugar content. The device is fast, user-friendly, durable, and reasonably priced, making it a viable solution for growers worldwide.
A study by Cedars-Sinai Medical Center has detected and measured contaminants from certain pesticides and industrial chemicals in the amniotic fluid of unborn babies. DDE levels were found in 30% of the population, ranging from 0.1 to 0.63 nanograms per milliliter, which is comparable to natural hormone levels.
Researchers used the One-Ångstrom Microscope to create unprecedented images of columns of carbon atoms in diamond lattices and nitrogen atoms in gallium nitride at atomic resolution. The technique overcomes challenges of resolving light elements in crystal lattices, enabling new discoveries in superhard materials, high-temperature supe...
Penn State engineers discovered that graphite flake shape and microstructure significantly impact cracking and chipping during casting and machining. They found that increasing machinability can reduce product breakage and costs by supporting the development of consistently machinable cast iron.