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News by Date: March 2005 WORLD STEEL PRICES TO RISE FURTHER BEFORE ENDING THE YEAR DOWN 31 March 2005 - MEPS (International) The MEPS World All Products Steel Price was in decline through January and February. A pick up occurred in March and is likely to continue into the third quarter before drifting downwards by the end of the year and beyond. Researchers bridge superconductivity gap 31 March 2005 - DOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory The discovery of 'unconventional superconductivity' may lead scientists to a whole new class of superconducting materials and toward the goal of eventually synthesizing 'room-temperature' superconductors. Preeclampsia in pregnancy increases risk of future cardiovascular disease and death 31 March 2005 - Yale University In a study of mothers with a history of preeclampsia, a hypertension complication in pregnancy affecting five percent of all women, researchers at Yale have found that these women have an increased lifetime risk for cardiovascular illness and death. HSC undertakes review of riddor 31 March 2005 - HSE InfoLine A key element is to ensure that any future reporting requirements are easy to understand and that businesses can achieve compliance without undue administrative costs. It is also essential that any reporting system is unbureaucratic and does not burden business unnecessarily. Scientists link gene to dyslexia 31 March 2005 - Cardiff University A gene which is likely to be one of the causes of dyslexia in children has been discovered by researchers at Cardiff University. They believe the major finding will give researchers a better understanding of what causes the brain disorder which disrupts reading and writing skills. Teenage highs and lows: scientists uncover risk factors for marijuana use 31 March 2005 - Cardiff University 'What risk factors influence teenagers to experiment with marijuana or to move to regular use?' is a question asked by a Cardiff University scientist, in collaboration with a colleague in the USA. ABB launches new comprehensive pressure transmitter range 31 March 2005 - ABB Limited (Group Headquarters) ABB’s new FieldIT 2600T pressure transmitter series offers one of the most complete ranges of pressure measurement equipment currently available. A vast selection of options, including basic model types, materials, working pressure, fill fluids, remote seal options and communications standards, enables the 2600T series to offer a host of customisable pressure transmitter solutions for a host of applications. Research team to compare environmental performance of building systems 30 March 2005 - Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Both Winistorfer and Kline contribute to the Journal of the Society of Wood Science and Technology’s special issue, “CORRIM Reports on Environmental Performance of Wood Building Materials,” which publishes the project’s findings. Ningbo site wins award 30 March 2005 - Akcros Chemicals Akzo Nobel's Cross-linking Peroxides plant in Ningbo, China, has been presented with an environmental award. AURORA boards offer new display capabilities to medical imaging professionals 30 March 2005 - Matrox VITE Each new AuroraVX3mp display controller board supports one Navigation Console of up to a resolution of 2 MP analog, color or grayscale, and also supports an additional two Twin Imaging Displays of up to 3 MP digital. Equipped with Hardware Pivot, the AuroraVX3mp board is also capable of driving various combinations of color and grayscale displays in portrait and/or landscape modes, and features an 8- or 10-bit display output for 256 or 1024 simultaneous shades of gray, depending on the available display attached. UO-ONAMI researcher gets patent for nanoparticle-based electronic devices 30 March 2005 - ONAMI (Oregon Nanoscience and Microtechnologies Institute) The University of Oregon has received a second patent that could lead to a new class of nanoscale electronics and optics assembled from nanoparticles - including ultra-small transistors that operate efficiently at room temperature. Even closer to the Asian market 30 March 2005 - Bayer MaterialScience AG Bayer MaterialScience AG, the world market leader for polyurethanes, is currently developing its global network of polyurethane system houses. The company is founding its first integrated system house on the Indian subcontinent near New Delhi. Lightweight for tough work 30 March 2005 - Bayer MaterialScience AG Bodywork parts for agricultural vehicles have to be robust, lightweight and attractive. Not only that, their production also has to be cost-effective. The design of the engine hood for the new “Serie 75” tractor from Italian agricultural machinery manufacturer BCS S.p.A. Divisione Ferrari of Luzzara meets all these requirements thanks to a clever combination of materials. New look for the home cinema 30 March 2005 - Bayer MaterialScience AG When it comes to the shape and size of televisions, the slimmer the set and the larger the screen, the better. Gone are the days of cumbersome televisions that were so deep they took up half the living room. 'Chemical dynamic' duo aids Navy 29 March 2005 - DOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory A new research effort is addressing 21st century energy needs of the US Navy in a thoroughly modern way – on the computer. The research to develop new computational capabilities ultimately will lead to more efficient electric power for ships and tougher, lighter-weight materials. It will also help the Navy use energy resources more efficiently. Improved dielectric developed for chip-level copper circuitry 29 March 2005 - University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign A new dielectric material, developed by researchers at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, could facilitate the use of copper circuitry at the chip level. The thermally stable aromatic polymer has a low dielectric constant of 1.85, good mechanical properties and excellent adhesion. GE’s LEXAN EXL Resin Helps Make BSH Water Kettle Appliance a Hot Item for Consumers 29 March 2005 - GE Advanced Materials BSH has chosen LEXAN EXL resin for its sleek BOSCH TWK8SL1 electric water/tea kettle. ABB to deliver its unique HVDC Light technology for power link between Finland and Estonia 29 March 2005 - ABB Automation Technologies A major power transmission link between Finland and Estonia was formally launched today at a signing ceremony between representatives of ABB, the leading power and automation technology group, and of Nordic Energy Link in the Estonian capital, Tallinn. Protein protects chromosome bonds 29 March 2005 - Austrian Science Fund (FWF) The protein Mnd2 inhibits premature separation of chromosomes during the formation of gametes. The now published discovery of this regulatory function may help to understand the origin of some common congenital chromosome defects. The project of a team of the University of Vienna funded by the Austrian Science Fund contributes to the Campus Vienna Biocenter maintaining a top-level position in the field of cell division research. Biotech start-up developed, grown with help from BU's Technology Development Fund 28 March 2005 - Boston University Genes that could bolster crop yields, improve nutritional content, or make food crops more disease resistant can now be more easily identified and developed because of breakthrough technology developed by Modular Genetics Inc., a Woburn, Mass.-based biotechnology company. New gene helps regulate production of potentially deadly tumor necrosis factor alpha cytokine 28 March 2005 - Boston University In a paper featured today in Proceedings of the National Academy of Science, researchers from Boston University School of Dental Medicine report the discovery of a new gene, STAT6(B), that helps regulate production of the potentially deadly tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) cytokine. Emrich joins Valvoline marketing 28 March 2005 - Ashland Inc Bryan M. Emrich has joined Valvoline, a division of Ashland Inc., as marketing director for lubricant and chemical brands, according to Walter Solomon, senior vice president and general manager, retail business. Neural response is specific for face perception 28 March 2005 - Yale University An area of the brain that activates when looking at faces does not respond the same way when perceiving other very familiar objects, according to a study by Yale researchers in the journal Neuropsychologia. Chemical present in clear plastics can impair learning and cause disease 28 March 2005 - Yale University Low doses of the environmental contaminant bisphenol–A, widely used to make many plastics found in food storage containers, including feeding bottles for infants, can impair brain function, leading to learning disabilities and age–related neurodegenerative diseases, according to Yale researchers and colleagues Surge of interest for its own-invented Scanning Vibrating Needle Curemeter 28 March 2005 - Rapra Technology Limited Inventor Bryan Willoughby notes that 'the instrument's use is always evolving. Materials-based niches as diverse as cast elastomers, PU foam systems, thermosets, unsaturated polyesters, silicone and liquid rubber, epoxies, polysulphides, PVC plastisols...all of these chemicaly reactive polymer sectors,' says Willoughby, 'are now using the SVNC in different ways; producing all sorts of high abrasion products such as golf balls, automotive, aeropspace and defence industry components and all manner of adhesives and sealants.' Device may offer alternative for stroke patients 28 March 2005 - Georgia Institute of Technology As the most common cause of adult disability in the United States, stroke leaves many survivors unable to perform tasks that were once part of their daily routine. Much of the time the disabilities are treatable, but the high cost of rehabilitation therapy leaves many patients to cope on their own. Maternal employment does not harm infants’ development, research shows 25 March 2005 - University of Texas at Austin When mothers spend time away from home at a job or school, their infants’ development does not suffer, according to a large study led by a researcher at The University of Texas at Austin. Monster super star cluster discovered in Milky Way 24 March 2005 - Cardiff University European astronomers, including a scientist from Cardiff University, have discovered the largest known star cluster in the Milky Way. First proof of underwater bipedal locomotion 24 March 2005 - National Science Foundation A diving trip always reveals amazing undersea creatures, but in 2000, while helping a film crew in the waters off an Indonesian island, a University of California, Berkeley, biologist did a double take when she saw an octopus walk by on two arms! Further exploration of tropical waters revealed that at least two octopus species can raise six of their arms and walk backward on the remaining two. New McGraw-Hill fluid mechanics textbook draws on Fluent's CFD software and examples 24 March 2005 - Fluent Fluent Inc., announced today its contribution to the new undergraduate engineering textbook by Yunus Çengel and John Cimbala; Fluid Mechanics: Fundamentals and Applications, published by McGraw-Hill Higher Education. This book is aimed at a college level syllabus for engineering students. Professor Çengel, professor emeritus at the University of Nevada, has written three very successful textbooks in the area of thermal sciences, including the top-selling textbook on Thermodynamics. Professor Cimbala is an award-winning expert in Air Quality and Environmental Engineering at Penn State University. Statement of incidents at nuclear installations 24 March 2005 - HSE InfoLine A statement on incidents at nuclear installations in Britain which meet Ministerial reporting criteria is reported to the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry and the Secretary of State for Scotland and is published every quarter by the Health and Safety Executive. ESAB's state-of-the-art welding equipment for fabrication and repair of fired boilers for steam locomotives 24 March 2005 - ESAB Group R K Pridham Engineering is an unusual company in that it still manufactures new fired boilers for steam locomotives, as well as carrying out repairs on old boilers. Few companies in the world are able to perform this type of work due to the scarcity of the specialist skills and equipment required, which is why R K Pridham Engineering has a healthy forward order book. Plastic fantastic on the piste 24 March 2005 - Bayer MaterialScience AG A composite design offers exceptional opportunities for manufacturing stable, lightweight snowboards. A strong material for the core, e.g. conventional wood or the Baydur® polyurethane system from Bayer MaterialScience, is covered on both top and underside with a glass fiber mat. Baypreg® polyurethane ensures the necessary cohesion between the core layer and glass fiber mat. The lightweight that's tough to the core 24 March 2005 - Bayer MaterialScience AG Extremely strong composite sandwich elements, manufactured using the sprayable Baypreg® polyurethane system from Bayer MaterialScience AG, have showed their mettle in a long line of automotive applications. Art at your feet 24 March 2005 - Bayer MaterialScience AG The individuality of a decorative floor coating no one else has. One designed by an artist for each individual room. Colorful and without joints or seams. All this is Artwalk®. Walkable, large format painting in casting resin 24 March 2005 - Bayer MaterialScience AG “Everything invented in abstract painting can find its origin – its archetype – in nature.” This has been the core experience of Cologne artist Ingrid Scheller. Amazing diversity 24 March 2005 - Bayer MaterialScience AG Bathrooms are increasingly becoming places for relaxation and wellness. As such, the fixtures and fittings of these feel-good oases have to meet high esthetic and technical requirements. A good allrounder among the polyurethane systems 24 March 2005 - Bayer MaterialScience AG The new Multitec® Short Fiber Spraying polyurethane system from Bayer MaterialScience AG is a cutting-edge alternative for manufacturing molded parts from glass fiber-reinforced plastics. This quick-curing, multi-component polyurethane system is sprayed into an open mold at room temperature. Polyurethane leather on the rise 24 March 2005 - Bayer MaterialScience AG Under the motto “VisionWorks with best technologies”, Bayer MaterialScience AG is presenting a versatile and broad portfolio of polyurethane products for textile coating and coagulation at the Asia Pacific Leather Fair 2005 in Hong Kong from April 6 – 9, 2005. More solids, less solvent 24 March 2005 - Bayer MaterialScience AG The Impranil® line of polyurethane dispersions from Bayer MaterialScience AG are well-established and proven raw materials for the coating of textiles for outerwear, bags and luggage and fashion shoe uppers. DSM Engineering Plastics to double capacity in China 24 March 2005 - DSM Engineering Plastics DSM Engineering Plastics is to double capacity in China on new site to manufacture key moulded components for the automotive, electrical and electronics industries. Theories of high-temperature superconductivity violate Pauli principle 24 March 2005 - University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Scientists seeking to explain high-temperature superconductivity have been violating the Pauli exclusion principle, a team of researchers from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and Rutgers University report. EU steel prices under threat as customers stop buying 23 March 2005 - MEPS (International) European steel prices across the board are showing declines in March - a development that has come as a surprise to those of us who were expecting the first few months of 2005 to see steady market conditions. M&G to Build World’s Largest PET Plant in Brazil 23 March 2005 - M&G Group The M&G Group today confirmed plans to build the world’s largest PET plant near the town of Ipojuca which is in the State of Pernambuco, North Eastern Brazil. The new plant will have a capacity of 450kt/year (approximately 990 million lbs/year) and is expected to come on-stream in late 2006. New from ESAB, the Aristo SuperPulse is a further development of the pulse/pulse concept 23 March 2005 - ESAB Group New from ESAB, the Aristo SuperPulse is a further development of the pulse/pulse concept, giving full control over the heat input and thereby expanding the scope of application of the MIG process. Matrox demonstrating new medical imaging solutions 23 March 2005 - Matrox VITE A low profile, single board PCI Express solution, the AuroraVX Series can power up to three displays-one Navigation Console Display, along with two Twin Imaging Displays. Matrox's AuroraVX2mp display controller board supports one navigation console up to a resolution of 2 MP analog, color or grayscale. Each VX2mp board also supports an additional two Twin Imaging Displays of up to 2 MP analog or digital. How to make newly built home interiors go from white to wow! 23 March 2005 - Rohm & Haas Co 'Interior painting is the number one do-it-yourself project because it allows the homeowner to inexpensively alter the look or mood of a room to enhance the space,' according to Debbie Zimmer, color and decorating consultant with the Rohm and Haas Paint Quality Institute. 'Many new homes have tall spaces and the simple application of interesting paint colors can make these open areas warmer and more welcoming. What’s bad for your ticker may be good for your bean, according to scientists at Boston University 22 March 2005 - Boston University The team looked at 18 years of data from the long-running Framingham Heart Study and found an association between naturally high levels of blood cholesterol and better mental functioning. The results were recently published in the journal Psychosomatic Medicine. Hybrid metal-polymer microstructures deliver design freedom 22 March 2005 - Tecan Hybrid microstructures can now be manufactured incorporating various material elements, including metals and polymers, to produce cost-effective integrated devices for new generation applications, from life sciences to diverse micro industry needs. Welding company supports education for the future 22 March 2005 - Eutectic UK Market-leading welding company Eutectic UK has formed a successful partnership with Hereford College of Technology in training the next generation of welders. Perception of risk can affect smoker's desire and ability to quit 22 March 2005 - Yale University There are many risks associated with smoking, but some smokers, particularly women, believe there are also risks associated with quitting, according to a study by Yale researchers in the March issue of Addictive Behaviors. Pregnancy complications related to low levels of anti–clotting proteins 22 March 2005 - Yale University Recurrent miscarriage, stillbirth, preeclampsia, poor fetal growth, preterm delivery and bleeding in pregnancy are influenced by low levels of the anti–clotting proteins Z and S, Yale School of Medicine researchers report in the March issue of Journal of Thrombosis and Haemostasis. GE XENOY Resin Helping to Re-Define Pedestrian Impact Protection Systems 21 March 2005 - GE Advanced Materials GE Advanced Materials, Automotive has developed new Pedestrian Impact Protection materials and design innovations to help automotive manufacturers and tier suppliers with the design of front-end safety systems. GE Advanced Materials, Automotive Revs Up Its Instrument Panel Program Featuring Two New Best-in-Class Resins 21 March 2005 - GE Advanced Materials GE Advanced Materials, Automotive has introduced a reinvigorated Instrument Panel (IP) program, featuring several new high-performance acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) and polycarbonate (PC) grades Spintronic materials show their first move 21 March 2005 - DOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory Physicists trace the 'hopping' of single electrons in magnetic materials Increasing charge mobility in single molecular organic crystals 21 March 2005 - DOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory Flexible displays that can be folded up in your pocket? More accurate biological and chemical sensors? Biocompatible electronics? Studies may help identify best materials for variety of future electronics applications Researchers pursue blast-resistant steel using new tomograph 21 March 2005 - Northwestern University Materials scientists and engineers at Northwestern University are developing a new 'high-security' steel that would be resistant to bomb blasts such as the one that struck - and nearly sank - the USS Cole in Yemen in 2000. Big hopes for tiny, new hydrogen storage material 21 March 2005 - DOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory Researchers at the Department of Energy's Pacific Northwest National Laboratory are taking a new approach to 'filling up' a fuel cell car with a nanoscale solid, hydrogen storage material. Their discovery could hasten a day when our vehicles will run on hydrogen-powered, environmentally friendly fuel cells instead of gasoline engines. Land Rover chooses Stadco's aluminium pressing capability for new Range Rover Sport 21 March 2005 - Stadco The ability to press large aluminium outer body panels has helped Stadco, one of Europe's leading automotive body-in-white specialists, secure a contract to supply Land Rover with panels for its new Range Rover Sport model, being launched this summer. New UV-curing polyurethane dispersions for wood finishes 21 March 2005 - Bayer MaterialScience AG Radiation-curing, water-based polyurethane systems for wood finishes are both economical and environmentally friendly. They cure very quickly under UV light, which means that the finished wood can be stacked immediately it leaves the production line. Replacement Parts For Kurt Vises And Power Drawbars Now Available For Buying On-Line 21 March 2005 - Kurt Manufacturing Company Replacement parts for all Kurt vises and power drawbars are now available for easy buying on-line at www.kurtworkholding.com Combining Flexible Kurt CarvLock ClusterTower Setups With DoubleLock Vises And Dedicated Fixtures Maximize Machine Output At SPX Service Solutions 21 March 2005 - Kurt Manufacturing Company SPX Service Solutions, a unit of SPX Corporation, is a world leader in the manufacture of automotive tools and equipment for the professional. SPX manufactures hundreds of these products ranging from heavy-duty diesel engine service tools to wheel dollies and bearing cup removers. Kurt Introduces New HDL Family Of Large 4 Inch Opening High Density Machinable Jaw Vises With New Quick Change Jaws – They Provide Repeatable Clamping To 0.001 Inch 21 March 2005 - Kurt Manufacturing Company Kurt’s new HDL manual and hydraulic vises have new quick change jaw feature and 4 inch hard jaw opening for both clamping stations. New ToolBlox Modular Tombstones Introduced By Kurt Manufacturing Company –They Provide 30-40 Percent Lighter Weight Building Block Modules For Fast Setups And High Density Workholding. 21 March 2005 - Kurt Manufacturing Company New ToolBlox modular tombstones in 2 Face and 4 Face models provide lighter weight options for designing and building high density workholding for today's high speed horizontal machining centers. Richard A. Henderson Appointed Division Manager Of Kurt Manufacturing Company’s Industrial Products Division 21 March 2005 - Kurt Manufacturing Company Kurt Manufacturing Company announced the appointment of Richard A. Henderson to the position of Division Manager for its Industrial Products Division. Michael Granlund Named Sales Engineer For Kurt Custom Engineered Workholding 21 March 2005 - Kurt Manufacturing Company Kurt Manufacturing Company, Industrial Products Division, announced the appointment of Michael Granlund to the position of sales engineer for its Custom Engineered Workholding operations. New Kurt High Density Vises, New 10 Inch Capacity Large Part Vises And New ToolBlox Tombstones Will Be Exhibited At IMTS 2004 McCormick Place Booth E2732 21 March 2005 - Kurt Manufacturing Company Kurt's 2004 IMTS Exhibit will feature a full array of new workholding products that provide precise repeatable part clamping solutions for a broad range of manufacturing requirements. New Kurt D810 Vise Has 10 Inch Jaw Opening, 11,600 Lbs. Precision Clamping Force Plus Several New Features For Easier Operation 21 March 2005 - Kurt Manufacturing Company Kurt's new D810 vise is ideal for precision clamping very large parts for both tool and die and production CNC applications. With a jaw opening of 10 inches and clamping force up to 11,600 lbs., this vise locks parts precisely including very large parts for aggressive 'hogging out' operations. Kurt's Custom Engineered Workholding Increases Machining Center Productivity - Stepped Jaw Design Handles 15 Different Size Parts 21 March 2005 - Kurt Manufacturing Company Need to find new ways to increase machining center productivity? The Custom Engineering Workholding Team of Kurt Manufacturing Company provides workholding solutions that greatly improve throughput while improving quality. Kurt's Custom Engineered Workholding Expanded To Include More Options And High Productivity Features 21 March 2005 - Kurt Manufacturing Company Improved machining productivity is provided by the Custom Engineered Workholding Team at Kurt Manufacturing Company. Kurt Introduces Adjustable See-Through Coolant Shield For 6 and 8 Inch Vises Call 1-800-328-2565 For FREE Data Sheet 21 March 2005 - Kurt Manufacturing Company A new adjustable coolant shield for Kurt Vises protects the operator from coolant spray. Called the Kurt Koolant Shield™, this vise accessory easily installs and sets up in seconds on any 6 or 8 inch Kurt vise. All New Kurt High Density, Heavy Duty Machinable 6 Inch Jaw Vises Are Smaller And Lighter 21 March 2005 - Kurt Manufacturing Company Kurt's newest generation High Density, Heavy Duty workholding products are designed specifically for the latest smaller machining centers requiring reduced table size and table load. Kurt Cluster Towers Have Eight Clamping Stations For High Density, High Productivity Workholding 21 March 2005 - Kurt Manufacturing Company Kurt Cluster Towers (CT series) have eight clamping stations making them ideal for small and mid-size machining centers including horizontal or vertical machining centers with a fourth axis. Kurt DoubleLock Vises Provide Cost-Saving Productivity By Maximizing The Number of Parts In a Machining Center Work Envelope 21 March 2005 - Kurt Manufacturing Company Kurt's DoubleLock line of precision vises improve productivity by providing multiple part workholding for better machine spindle utilization, reduced tool change time plus reduced machine travel from part-to-part. They accommodate a wide variety of part shapes as well as a wide range of part sizes. Kurt's New 'HD' 8-Station Manual And Hydraulic Towers Provide Rigid Part Holding, Small Footprint For All Machining Centers 21 March 2005 - Kurt Manufacturing Company Kurt's HD CarvLock™ manual and hydraulic towers feature quick-change machinable jaws that mount on a ductile iron base. These towers provide strength, rigidity and long term accuracy and are ideal for the full range of horizontal machining centers including the smallest versions. Because of their compact size, they also work well on vertical machines that are equipped with indexers. Kurt Introduces New 'Clak' Quick-Change Parallel System For Its 4 And 6 Inch Vises 21 March 2005 - Kurt Manufacturing Company Called the Kurt 'Clak' system, these patented parallels eliminate manual clamping and locking up of jaw components. Each parallel has two spring-loaded steel balls in its base, which snaps into and locks to a corresponding jaw plate. These parallels slide and lock into place without the need for hand tools. HSE launch initiative with waste and recycling industry to reduce injuries 21 March 2005 - HSE InfoLine The Health and Safety Executive has launched a three-year initiative with the waste and recycling industry to address the high number of fatal and serious incidents that occur during collection and processing of municipal waste and recycling activities. Tiny porphyrin tubes developed by Sandia may lead to new nanodevices which could result in clean, inexpensive hydrogen fuel 18 March 2005 - DOE/Sandia National Laboratories Sunlight splitting water molecules to produce hydrogen using devices too small to be seen in a standard microscope? That's a goal of a research team from the National Nuclear Security Administration's Sandia National Laboratories. The research has captured the interest of chemists around the world pursuing methods of producing hydrogen from water. Particulates - Ever tinier particles are coming under the researchers’ microscopes 18 March 2005 - UFZ - Centre for Environmental Research (Umweltforschungszentrum Leipzig-Halle) You can’t smell them, you can’t taste them and particulates are not visible to the naked eye. They are tiny, with a diameter not even a tenth of that of a hair. Yet they have a major impact. Particulates - ever tinier particles are coming under the researchers’ microscopes 18 March 2005 - UFZ - Centre for Environmental Research (Umweltforschungszentrum Leipzig-Halle) Scientists fear that the most dangerous particles are even smaller than PM10, particles with a diameter of less than 10 micrometres. Currently there are neither limit values nor a monitoring network for such particles. These ultrafine particles are smaller than 100 nanometres, that is less than one ten millionth of a metre. Breakthrough in steel belt technology opens up new application opportunities 17 March 2005 - Sandvik Materials Technology UK A breakthough in steel belt processing technology has enabled Sandvik Process Systems, a product area within Sandvik Materials Technology, to launch a range of super thin stainless steel conveyor belts. Red wine protects the Heart 17 March 2005 - Yale University A review article of the latest studies looking at red wine and cardiovascular health shows drinking two to three glasses of red wine daily is good for the heart, according to a Yale School of Medicine researcher in the Journal of American College of Surgeons. Yale scientists find MicroRNA regulates ras cancer gene 17 March 2005 - Yale University Research in the laboratory of Assistant Professor Frank J. Slack at Yale University has identified a new way that a familiar gene is regulated in lung cancer, presenting new possibilities for diagnosis and treatment. The work is reported in March issues of the journals Cell and Developmental Cell. Breakthrough in steel belt technology opens up new application opportunities 17 March 2005 - Sandvik Materials Technology UK A breakthough in steel belt processing technology has enabled Sandvik Process Systems, a product area within Sandvik Materials Technology, to launch a range of super thin stainless steel conveyor belts. Dropping nano-anchor 17 March 2005 - DOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory PNNL-led group controls loading of functional 'anchor' molecules on carbon nanotubes without encumbering tubes' strength, conductivity Stylish designer chair that offers maximum seating comfort 17 March 2005 - Bayer MaterialScience AG Italian product design enjoys an exceptional reputation worldwide. Probably no other country comes up with so many creative ideas that transform everyday objects into something really special – making them more appealing, fashionable and refined. Building a better Nanoworld with microbes 17 March 2005 - National Science Foundation In a new approach to assembling nanotechnology's atomic-scale machines, a team of scientists at the University of Wisconsin, Madison, has successfully crafted tiny bio-electronic circuits out of live bacteria. Among the potential applications is a new class of sensors that could rapidly detect dangerous biological agents such as anthrax. Researchers develop formulas to replicate optimal vision tracking strategies 17 March 2005 - University of Texas at Austin Mathematical formulas for optimal eye movements that have significant implications for designing robotic visual systems and improving visual performance for people losing eyesight have been developed by University of Texas at Austin researchers. Mechanism of RNA Recoding: New twists in brain protein production 16 March 2005 - National Science Foundation University of Connecticut Health Center scientist, Robert Reenan, has uncovered new rules of RNA recoding, a genetic editing method cells use to expand the number of proteins assembled from a single DNA code. According to his work, the shape a particular RNA adopts solely determines how editing enzymes modify the information molecule inside cells. The study may help explain the remarkable adaptability and evolution of animal nervous systems, including the human brain. Loss of sulphur atom reduces activity of catalyst 16 March 2005 - Delft University of Technology Chemical catalysts used to produce clean fuels gradually become less active. Dutch researcher Bas Vogelaar believes that the loss of sulphur atoms might be an important cause of this. He investigated hydroprocessing catalysts which remove sulphur compounds from petrol and diesel. Cultured stone highest rated manufactured stone veneer 16 March 2005 - Owens Corning To meet increasing builder demand, Owens Corning in October announced a $31 million initiative was underway to expand capacity for its Cultured Stone brand stone veneer by 70 percent by the end of 2005. DuPont opens first Packaging & Industrial Polymers ethylene copolymer business operation in Asia Pacific 16 March 2005 - DuPont Engineering Polymers DuPont Packaging and Industrial Polymers opened a new DuPont™ Bynel® and DuPont™ Fusabond® adhesive resins production facility in Shenzhen, China, in mid-March 2005. Yale authors raise concerns regarding regionalized heart attack care 16 March 2005 - Yale University Calls to regionalize the care of patients with heart attacks are premature, and do not account for potential unintended consequences, according to a commentary by Yale researchers published in today's Journal of the American Medical Association. Researchers study how to make nanomaterial industry environmentally sustainable 16 March 2005 - Georgia Institute of Technology Research into making the emerging nanomaterial industry environmentally sustainable is showing promise in a preliminary engineering study conducted at the Georgia Institute of Technology and Rice University. Environmentally safer catalyst proves more active in hydrogen production 16 March 2005 - Ohio State University Ohio State University engineers have developed a chemical catalyst that increases hydrogen production without using a toxic metal common to other catalysts. Snow brings green machining to laboratory 16 March 2005 - DOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory University of California scientists working at Los Alamos National Laboratory have developed a novel machining technique that uses a jet of solid carbon dioxide (CO2) to cool/lubricate the surface of metal parts and remove the cut material during machining. Called Snow-Machining, the process could someday eliminate the use of oil-based or synthetic chemical fluids for metal cutting and metal parts cleaning in industry. Loss of sulphur atom reduces activity of catalyst 16 March 2005 - Netherlands Organization for Scientific Research Chemical catalysts used to produce clean fuels gradually become less active. Dutch researcher Bas Vogelaar believes that the loss of sulphur atoms might be an important cause of this. He investigated hydroprocessing catalysts which remove sulphur compounds from petrol and diesel. 'Few-walled' carbon nanotubes said cheap and efficient option for certain applications 16 March 2005 - Duke University North Carolina scientists have found that 'thinnest' is not necessarily 'best' in rating structure and function of carbon nanotubes, the molecule-sized cylinders that show promise for futuristic technology scaled at a billionths of a metre. U-M team makes synthetic mother of pearl 16 March 2005 - University of Michigan It's possible to grow thin films of mother of pearl in the laboratory that are even stronger than the super-strong material that naturally lines the inside of abalone shells. The trick is to add compounds normally found in insect shells and fungi cell walls to the recipe. Polymers with copper show promise for implanted sensors 15 March 2005 - University of Michigan A University of Michigan team that previously demonstrated improved accuracy with intravascular sensors that were coated with nitric oxide-releasing polymers has promising preliminary results with a new strategy: creating polymer coatings that generate nitric oxide from components already in the blood. Probing the promise and perils of nanoparticles 15 March 2005 - University of Michigan For all its promise, the prospect of using nanoparticles in biomedical applications and consumer products has raised concerns about possible harmful effects of the miniscule materials. Scientists at the University of Michigan are addressing those concerns by investigating how certain kinds of nanoparticles damage cell membranes - enough to cause cell death in some cases - and how the damage can be prevented. GE’s LEXAN EXL Resin Helps Make BSH Water Kettle Appliance a Hot Item for Consumers 15 March 2005 - GE Advanced Materials BSH has chosen LEXAN EXL resin for its sleek BOSCH TWK8SL1 electric water/tea kettle. Ceria nanoparticles catalyse reactions for cleaner-fuel future 15 March 2005 - DOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory Experiments on ceria (cerium oxide) nanoparticles carried out at the US Department of Energy's Brookhaven National Laboratory may lead to catalytic converters that are better at cleaning up auto exhaust, and/or to more-efficient ways of generating hydrogen - a promising zero-emission fuel for the future. Purdue finding could help develop clean energy technology 15 March 2005 - Purdue University Chemical engineers at Purdue University have made a discovery that may help to improve a promising low-polluting energy technology that combusts natural gas more cleanly than conventional methods. Bayer Expects Considerable Growth in Sales and Earnings From Continuing Operations in 2005 15 March 2005 - Bayer MaterialScience AG Following a successful fiscal 2004, the Bayer Group expects considerable growth in sales and earnings from continuing operations in 2005. Ashland and SinterCast announce global alliance 15 March 2005 - Ashland Inc Ashland Casting Solutions, a business group within Ashland Specialty Chemical, a division of Ashland Inc., and SinterCast AB (publ) have agreed to a global marketing and technical alliance. New urethane acrylate for UV-curing coatings is universal, emission-free and economical 15 March 2005 - Bayer MaterialScience AG With Roskydal UA XP 2587, Bayer MaterialScience AG has come up with a low-viscosity aliphatic urethane acrylate that can be used to formulate high-quality emission-free coatings – for instance for the sealing of parquet floors. Universal, emission-free and economical 15 March 2005 - Bayer MaterialScience AG Coatings that cure quickly under energy-saving UV light have a number of economic advantages. The coated articles can, for example, be immediately stacked and made ready for transport as soon as they leave the production line. New ABB display stand takes care of itself 15 March 2005 - ABB Limited (Group Headquarters) With ABB's EPack stand, the time and effort traditionally associated with maintaining a display stand is eliminated. Each product featured on the stand is accompanied by an individual ticket, which customers simply take to the counter when ordering. New epoxy resin formula eliminates time & costly post curing process while maintaining robustness 15 March 2005 - ABB Limited (Group Headquarters) A new patented formula for epoxy resin, developed by ABB, is helping the company reduce the production time for a variety of its power technology products by up to 20%. Equipment such as dry transformers, embedded poles in medium voltage breakers and instrument transformers are insulated with epoxy resin because of its superior mechanical and electrical properties, low water uptake, chemical and temperature resistance and comparatively low cost. UCLA biochemists map a knot of RNA that's critical to the enzyme's functioning 14 March 2005 - National Science Foundation Every time a cell divides, the tips of its chromosomes become shorter. That process is part of normal aging but is reversed in some groups of rapidly dividing cells by an enzyme known as telomerase. That ability also makes telomerase a key player in the spread of most cancers. Borealis appoints Ultrapolymers as European rotomoulding distribution partner 14 March 2005 - Borealis A/S Borealis has appointed Ultrapolymers as distribution partner in Europe for its full range of polyethylene and polypropylene rotomoulding (RM) resins effective March 14, 2005. GE Advanced Materials and Exatec Fuse Function and Aesthetics for Leading Innovative Large Surface Glazing Technologies 14 March 2005 - GE Advanced Materials GE Advanced Materials, Automotive, working in collaboration with Exatec, offers premium design options for large three-dimensional (3-D) glazing panels for rear and roof window applications and other 3-D parts by combining high-performance LEXAN GLX resin with unique coating technologies from Exatec. Owens Corning fibre glass certified as industry’s highest level of recycled content recycled content level exceeds certified competitors 14 March 2005 - Owens Corning At the NAHB Green Building Conference at Atlanta, Owens Corning has announced that its line of fibreglass insulation products has been certified to contain an average of 35 percent recycled content by leading third-party certifier Scientific Certification Systems (SCS). Rhesus monkeys reason about perspectives of others in obtaining food 14 March 2005 - Yale University Rhesus monkeys consider whether someone can or cannot see them when trying to steal food, indicating they have the ability to reason about the mental states of others, according to a study published this month in Current Biology. Molecular wires & corrosion control boost performance of conductive adhesives replacing lead-based solder 14 March 2005 - Georgia Institute of Technology Electrically conductive adhesive (ECA) materials offer the electronics industry an alternative to the tin-lead solder now used for connecting display driver chips, memory chips and other devices to circuit boards. But before these materials find broad application in high-end electronic equipment, researchers will have to overcome technical challenges that include low current density. In solution, tiny magnetic wires scatter light 13 March 2005 - University of Wisconsin-Madison Manoeuvring external magnets, scientists can command the direction in which light bounces off tiny, magnetic wires that sway like matchsticks in thick, slow-moving solutions. Researchers develop a technique to measure defects in materials with unprecedented accuracy 13 March 2005 - DOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory Researchers at the U.S. Department of Energy's Brookhaven National Laboratory have developed a technique to detect defects in materials with picometer accuracy. Researchers develop chemical process to use cotton-gin residue 11 March 2005 - Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University About 100,000 acres of cotton are grown in Virginia. The ginned cotton residue left at the processing plants contains the chemical ingredients commercially valuable products. The residue accumulates at the site and must be removed, otherwise it's a hazard because it easily ignites and can contribute to air pollution if it burns. New piece found in the cell-shape puzzle 11 March 2005 - National Science Foundation The interlocked cells on the surface of a plant leaf form a pattern that looks like a finished jigsaw puzzle. But how the cells develop their wavy outlines has been a long-standing question for plant biologists. Now, in the March 11 issue of the journal Cell, scientists discover an important missing piece: the interplay of two opposing biochemical processes gives these cells their characteristic and essential shape. Corus and ESI Group Partnership Provides Advanced Material Simulation Capabilities to Automotive Manufacturers 11 March 2005 - Corus Integration of the Corus-Vegter model into PAM-STAMP 2G software improves reliability and cost benefits Owens Corning and RheTech Sign Agreement for Making 11 March 2005 - Owens Corning Owens Corning and RheTech have announced a licensing agreement under which RheTech will manufacture and sell in North America a proprietary long-fiber glass/polyolefin thermoplastic (LFTP) developed by Owens Corning. Preiswürdige Innovation in der Messtechnik für MEMS 11 March 2005 - POLYTEC GMBH Polytec MSA-400 Micro System Analyzer für den AMA Sensorik Borealis achieves major increase in operating profit to EUR 278 million for 2004 10 March 2005 - Borealis A/S Borealis has announced its fourth quarter results, reporting an operating profit of EUR 104 million for the quarter. The result compared positively to the EUR 24 million achieved in the same quarter of 2003, benefiting from improved operations and higher industry margins. Materialise presence in China meets the rising demand for advanced Materialise technology 10 March 2005 - Materialise NV Just 5 months after establishing its South Korean liaison office, Materialise announces the setting up of a representative office in Shanghai, China. With this latest office Materialise Software is set to offer more localised support, take on new business and strengthen the company's existing relationships in China. Bayer MaterialScience Introduces New Aromatic Polyester-Based TPU Resin 10 March 2005 - Bayer MaterialScience AG Bayer MaterialScience LLC has expanded its Texin® family of aromatic polyester-based thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) resins with Texin DP7-1197. The new resin was designed for applications that require durability under harsh conditions. Ashland responds to letter from investment management firm 10 March 2005 - Ashland Inc On March 9, 2005, Ashland Inc. received a letter from Atticus Capital, L.L.C., an investment management firm, which states that Atticus holds Ashland common stock and expresses Atticus' concern regarding Ashland's previously announced proposed transaction with Marathon Oil Corporation for the transfer of Ashland's 38-percent interest in Marathon Ashland Petroleum LLC (MAP) and certain other assets. Corus and ESI Group Partnership provides advanced material simulation capabilities to automotive manufacturers 10 March 2005 - Corus Automotive Corus, the international metals producer, and ESI Group, leading provider of digital simulation software for prototyping and manufacturing processes, has announced the integration of the Corus-Vegter model, a new advanced material simulation model, into PAM-STAMP 2G software package. RENPASTE® XD 4618 – DEVELOPED SPECIFICALLY FOR MARINE APPLICATIONS 10 March 2005 - Huntsman Advanced Materials RenPaste® Seamless Modelling Pastes (SMP) from Huntsman Advanced Materials are widely used in the marine industry, with successful projects ranging from rowing boats, leisure, speed and racing boats to luxury yachts. Beryllium Copper meets Bathing Beauty Armitage Shanks in partmership with ITC. 10 March 2005 - ITC Tooling Armitage Shanks is renown for its stylish, high quality and up - to - the - minute bathroom ware. ITC Speed Graphite Electrode Production. Graphite Technologies increase capacity and flexibility thanks to ITC. 10 March 2005 - ITC Tooling Midlands - based Graphite Technologies plc, part of the Tokai Carbon Group, is currently using a 65,000 rpm air driven spindle for the manufacture of solid - sinking EDM electrodes. Air Turbine Delivers 30,000 rpm ITC helps Tarpey-Harris Ltd increase their high speed machining capabilities. 10 March 2005 - ITC Tooling The benefits of high spindle speeds in mould and die applications are well known. However the cost of high speed machining centre prohibits many companies from employing this technology. International Steel Market Roundup - March 2005 10 March 2005 - MEPS (International) The monthly roundup of the steel marekt from MEPS International. MEPS North American Carbon Steel Price Forecast for February 2005 10 March 2005 - MEPS (International) Flat product prices had been in decline for five consecutive months. With ore and coke suppliers demanding substantial price hikes in latest settlements, the mills will make every effort to recover some of the extra costs. The price decrease is expected to be halted soon and put into reverse. Bayer MaterialScience Introduces New Aromatic Polyester-Based TPU Resin 10 March 2005 - Bayer MaterialScience AG Bayer MaterialScience LLC has expanded its Texin® family of aromatic polyester-based thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) resins with Texin DP7-1197. The new resin was designed for applications that require durability under harsh conditions. HSC Consults on Redrafted Guidance for Nuclear Reactors Decommissioning Regulations 10 March 2005 - HSE InfoLine The Health and Safety Commission has published a consultative document seeking comments on redrafted guidance from the Health and Safety Executive on the Nuclear Reactors (Environmental Impact Assessment for Decommissioning) Regulations 1999 (EIADR99). ESAB Automation can provide a wide and continuously changing stock of refurbished machines 10 March 2005 - ESAB Group As a cost effective alternative to investment in a new cutting machine, ESAB Automation can provide a wide and continuously changing stock of refurbished machines. New technique uses Seismic Garbage to view Earth's interior 10 March 2005 - National Science Foundation Seismologists have long relied on earthquakes or expensive tools like explosives to help create images of Earth's interior, but a new method created by University of Colorado at Boulder researchers will produce quicker, cheaper and clearer images. Rohm and Haas announces acrylic acid expansion 10 March 2005 - Rohm & Haas Co Rohm and Haas Company announces plans for an acrylic acid expansion at the Marl, Germany plant. The Marl, Germany plant is operated through StoHaas, a 50-50 joint venture between Rohm and Haas Company and Degussa AG. Discovery of genetic variation, that's strongest risk factor associated with age-related macular degeneration 10 March 2005 - Boston University Researchers from Boston University School of Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, and SEQUENOM, Inc., report the discovery of a genetic variation, that is the strongest known risk factor associated with age-related macular degeneration. Published in the March 10, 2005, online issue of the journal Science, the study entitled “Complement Factor H Polymorphism and Age-Related Macular Degeneration,” details the discovery of the gene that may account for approximately fifty percent of the cases of AMD in the population. RegiStarTM new laser imageable technologies 09 March 2005 - Rohm & Haas Co Rohm and Haas Electronic Materials today announced the release of its new RegiStar Laser-imageable Technologies product line for use with laser projection systems. This proprietary material, offered exclusively by Rohm and Haas Electronic Materials, is an alternative to conventional tooling methods and offers significant manufacturing flexibility to the advanced composites, marine and aerospace industries. The material is currently available as a tape format in 150-foot rolls of various widths. Mill for Ultra Fine/Nano Grinding Applications 09 March 2005 - Cyclotec Cyclotec, a St. Petesburg, Russia - based engineering firm that specializes in the fine grinding technology, reports significant interest in its Planetary Centrifugal Mill(PCM) Technology. PCT baking tins help reduce operating costs and improve efficiency 09 March 2005 - DuPont Engineering Polymers Industrial baking tins made of DuPont Thermx high temperature polyester are gaining acceptance across Europe as a viable alternative to their metal counterparts. Automobile manufacture of the future: Priority for lightweight PU parts 09 March 2005 - Bayer MaterialScience AG The aviation industry has successfully shown how to do it. Where extreme weight reduction matters, state-of-the-art sandwich materials made of core elements combined with a honeycomb or corrugated structure and load-bearing facings have boomed for a long time. Peguform Bohemia and Exatec teaming up to advance Polycarbonate Automotive Glazing 09 March 2005 - Bayer MaterialScience AG The cooperation of a leading automotive equipment supplier and the leading international polycarbonate glazing specialist heralds a new era in automotive design. High Visibility – Exatec Backlight Technology with Defroster and Wiper System 09 March 2005 - Bayer MaterialScience AG The Exatec 900 Automotive Glazing System now enables polycarbonate backlights based on new printed defroster and plasma coating technology, providing glass-like abrasion resistance, compatibility with commercially available wiper and adhesive systems and long-term durability. MEPS Asian Carbon Steel Price Forecast for February 2005 09 March 2005 - MEPS (International) In the flat products sector, the higher than expected raw material cost increases have prompted us to significantly uprate our forecasts for the next twelve months. Rogers Corp Launches New R/bakSA 3000 Cushion Mounting Tape at Latin America Label Summit 2005 09 March 2005 - Rogers Corporation Rogers Corporation will be introducing R/bak SA 3000 Cushion Mounting Tape, a new product that offers consistent print results, higher print quality, and easier handling at this year’s Latin America Label Summit. Rogers Corp to Feature R/flex3000 Family of LCP at RF & Hyper 2005 09 March 2005 - Rogers Corporation Rogers Corporation will be showcasing its R/flex 3000 family of Liquid Crystalline Polymer (LCP) ­based circuit materials at this year’s RF & Hyper Exhibition. Rogers will be exhibiting at the show with its French agent/distributor MB Electronique. Eagle One, a business unit of the Valvoline division, has introduced a new product 09 March 2005 - Ashland Inc The new product, Bucket-Free Car Wash, does just what the name implies - eliminates the need for a bucket of soapy water and the extra work that comes with it! And because the dirt and grime from the bucket of water is no longer re applied to the car, the final result is a superior clean and shine. Corus and ESI Group Partnership provides advanced material simulation capabilities 09 March 2005 - ESI Group Corus, the international metals producer, and ESI Group, leading provider of digital simulation software for prototyping and manufacturing processes, today announced the integration of the Corus-Vegter model, a new advanced material simulation model, into PAM-STAMP 2G software package. Combining Corus and ESI Group expertise, this partnership will help automotive designers and engineers to significantly improve the accuracy of formability analysis predictions and press stamping evaluations. Sharp AQUOS P50-Serie – PAL-optimierte Panels für Europa Zur Übersicht 09 March 2005 - Sharp Electronics (Europe) GmbH Weltpremiere auf der CeBIT: Mit der AQUOS LCD-TV P50-Baureihe präsentiert Sharp ein echtes Novum. Die Displays der drei neuen 37, 32 und 26 Zoll großen Geräte sind mit ihrer Auflösung von 960 mal 540 Bildpunkten speziell auf die europäischen TV-Formate PAL und SECAM abgestimmt. Damit ist der Weltmarktführer Sharp der weltweit erste Hersteller, der spezielle Panels für den bedeutendsten LCD-TV Markt präsentiert. DuPont™ Thermx® PCT baking tins help reduce operating costs and improve efficiency