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News by Date: August 2007 Alcoa Wheel Products introduces new Dura-Bright(R) Wheels with XBR(TM) technology 18 August 2007 - Alcoa Alcoa's new Dura-Bright(R) wheels with XBR technology are now brighter than ever and provide customers with wheels that are 53% more reflective and with 74% more image clarity! Bodywork parts with Class A surfaces using film insert molding 18 August 2007 - Bayer MaterialScience AG One method of producing plastic bodywork parts that enable color matching to neighboring metal parts is through back-injecting pre-formed films with thermoplastics, also known as film insert molding. The film is responsible for the surface quality of the component (Class A) and the back-injection material is responsible for its mechanical and thermal properties in particular, such as stiffness and thermal expansion. Much more flexibility to supply customers around the world 18 August 2007 - Bayer MaterialScience AG Bayer MaterialScience will acquire Taiwan’s Ure-Tech Group, the largest thermoplastic polyurethane producer in the Asia Pacific region. With this acquisition the Germany-based company will become the worldwide largest supplier and solutions provider of TPU resins and films. Both parties have agreed not to disclose purchase price and other related details of the acquisition. New TPU grades optimized for laser marking 18 August 2007 - Bayer MaterialScience AG The new Desmopan grades enable faster, higher-definition, higher-contrast laser marking with more subtle grayscale levels. They will initially be used for animal identification tags. GE services provides $275 Million revolving credit facility for hertz corporation 18 August 2007 - AZDEL Commercial Finance Fleet Services today announced the closing of a new $275 million 5-year revolving credit facility for Hertz Corporation, the largest general use car rental company in the world. GE Commercial Finance Fleet Services, which served as sole lead arranger and bookrunner for the facility and led its syndication, also will serve as administrative agent. Proceeds of the financing, primarily will be used to acquire, finance and refinance vehicles for the company’s car rental business. Stein Mart and GE retail consumer finance announce co-brand credit card agreement 18 August 2007 - AZDEL Stein Mart, Inc. and GE Retail Consumer Finance, the consumer lending unit of General Electric Company, today announced an exclusive, multi-year agreement to launch a Stein Mart co-brand credit program. The new Stein Mart Platinum Rewards MasterCard will offer its cardholders a points-based rewards program plus the benefits of the Stein Mart Preferred Customer Program. The companies are launching the new card this month. GE, Silex receive U.S. government authorizations to proceed with uranium deal 18 August 2007 - AZDEL Energy’s nuclear business and Australia materials technology developer Silex Systems Limited have received the U.S. government authorizations required to proceed with an agreement granting GE exclusive rights to develop and commercialize Silex’s advanced, laser-based uranium enrichment technology. GE announces major milestone in solid oxide fuel cell technology 17 August 2007 - AZDEL GE today announced it has successfully developed and delivered a 6 kW prototype of a Solid Oxide Fuel Cell system to the U.S. Department of Energy /National Energy Technology Laboratory for testing as part of a multi-year research program under the Department’s Solid State Energy Conversion Alliance Coal-Based Systems program. GE provides $80.0 million U.S. credit facility & £15.0 million U.K. for leading producer steel bars 17 August 2007 - AZDEL Antares Capital and its sister company, GE Leveraged Loans Ltd., based in the United Kingdom, today announced their role as administrative agent for an $80.0 million U.S. senior credit facility and a £15.0 million U.K. senior credit facility to support KNIA Holdings, Inc., an affiliate of funds managed by Kohlberg & Company, L.L.C. (“Kohlberg”) in its acquisition of Niagara Corporation (“Niagara”). GE Capital Markets served as the sole lead arranger and bookrunner for the credit facility. Valley Baptist health system selects GE healthcare’s centricity enterprise solution 17 August 2007 - AZDEL Healthcare, a unit of General Electric Company and a leading provider of comprehensive clinical, financial and administrative information technology solutions announced today that Valley Baptist Health System will upgrade its existing IDX “LastWord” system to the Centricity Enterprise (formerly IDX Carecast) solution. Once complete, the implementation of Centricity Enterprise will provide caregivers with a complete and accurate view of a patient’s medical history electronically. Growing safety awareness and new standards: Fire safety for television sets 17 August 2007 - Bayer MaterialScience AG Ambilight is an innovative lighting concept built into the rear of this TV from Philips, which illuminates the immediate surroundings of the flat TV. Thereby Philips uses both Bayblend FR and Makrolon from Bayer MaterialScience. Material values from high-speed tensile tests for crash simulation 17 August 2007 - Bayer MaterialScience AG Crash tests are complex and costly. Developers in the car industry therefore try to keep the numbers of such tests to a minimum and instead are making increasing use of simulations. This also applies to plastic components such as front ends, bumpers, and fenders. Finite element method simulations are used to analyze the crash behavior of these components at typical speeds. The material values required can be derived from high-speed tensile tests. Bayer MaterialScience starts new communications campaign 17 August 2007 - Bayer MaterialScience AG The evolution from a raw materials supplier to a project and development partner has long been an integral part of Bayer MaterialScience AG and is reflected not least in the recently opened TechniKomm. The new facilities provide a bright and friendly environment where design plans can be discussed with customers and where creative product ideas can be conceived. Alcoa's Hungary Operation ships first order of turbine airfoils 17 August 2007 - Alcoa According to Laszlo Veres, Director, Manufacturing Europe/Asia for Alcoa Howmet, the first shipment follows an expansive modernization project at the Alcoa-Kofem facility. Alcoa AFL Automotive & Altair Nanotechnologies to develop battery pack system 16 August 2007 - Alcoa Alcoa's AFL Automotive business and Altair Nanotechnologies Inc. announced that they have signed an agreement to develop a battery pack system for medium-duty hybrid trucks. New fire-retardant, UV-protective product grades from Makrolon 16 August 2007 - Bayer MaterialScience AG Potential applications of the new UV-stabilized and fire-retardant grades of Makrolon include electrical plugs, edge connectors, electrical distributors and fuse boxes. Bayer MaterialScience establishes center in United Arab Emirates Enhanced in Middle East 16 August 2007 - Bayer MaterialScience AG Bayer MaterialScience AG is responding to the rapidly growing importance of markets in the Middle East by establishing a new innovation center in Dubai. This facility is the first development center for high-quality polymer materials in the region to have access to a wide range of options for technical service, the development of new applications, and training for customers and employees. New application for Makrolon : Diffuser sheets for LCD screens 16 August 2007 - Bayer MaterialScience AG The tailor-made variant of Makrolon has better optical properties than PMMA. The diffuser sheets made from it therefore produce a much brighter light, which benefits image quality. GE Energy announces availability of new impulse cleaning system for enhanced boiler operation 16 August 2007 - AZDEL GE Energy has announced the availability of it’s new product, Powerwave+, an innovative impulse cleaning system that enhances boiler operation at power generation plants that burn coal to produce electricity and minimizes high maintenance and expenses associated with other cleaning methods. GE to supply ecomagination products for Dynoil’s alternative energy initiative 16 August 2007 - AZDEL GE is supplying its ecomagination-certified solar energy modules and water filtration technology to a new initiative, launched by Dynoil LLC, to increase the availability of clean drinking water in rural areas of India and in other developing countries of Southeast Asia and Africa. GE brings ecomagination to India 16 August 2007 - AZDEL General Electric Company today announced the launch of the company’s innovative ecomagination initiative in India, designed to bring to market new technologies that will help customers address their most pressing environmental challenges such as the need for cleaner, more efficient sources of energy, reduced emissions and abundant sources of clean water. New high-efficiency lamps targeted for market by 2010 15 August 2007 - AZDEL GE Consumer & Industrial’s Lighting division, a world leader in the development of energy-efficient lighting products, today announced advancements to the light bulb invented by GE’s founder Thomas Edison that potentially will elevate the energy efficiency of this 125-year-old technology to levels comparable to compact fluorescent lamps, delivering significant environmental benefits. GE unit makes first investment in natural gas storage, expanding its midstream assets 15 August 2007 - AZDEL GE Energy Financial Services, a unit of General Electric, is making its first investment in natural gas storage, acquiring a preferred equity interest in an underground salt dome storage project in Louisiana for $65 million from Haddington Energy Partners III LP, a Houston-based, energy-focused private equity fund. GE Turboprops help power U.S. coast guard deepwater program 15 August 2007 - AZDEL Deepwater is a multiyear, multibillion-dollar program to modernize and replace the Coast Guard’s aging ships and aircraft. The twin-engine CN235 medium-range surveillance, maritime patrol aircraft replaces the Falcon 20 and provides more endurance and a more cost-effective mission solution. GE Energy’s Jenbacher biogas engines power 15 August 2007 - AZDEL A GE Energy Jenbacher biogas engine is powering a successful demonstration cattle manure-methane cogeneration plant at a large dairy complex in India’s northwestern state of Punjab, helping to address the region’s mounting energy and environmental needs. New polycarbonate blend for automotive instrument panels 15 August 2007 - Bayer MaterialScience AG Bayblend DP T88 Plus is far easier flowing, tougher, and stiffer than PC/ABS Bayblend T88-2N, which is the established material for instrument panel production. High-tech tweezers developed by Bayer MaterialScience form the basis for innovative applications 15 August 2007 - Bayer MaterialScience AG When the transparent polycarbonate arms are touched, the tips of the tweezers light up. The “field of operation” is illuminated at exactly the right moment, thorns or splinters don’t stand a chance. New flame-retardant polycarbonate/ABS blend developed 15 August 2007 - Bayer MaterialScience AG The yield stress (ISO 527-1 and -2) of Bayblend DP 3008 HR is virtually unaffected by being positioned over a water bath at a temperature of 80 °C for 60 days. This would completely destroy test pieces made from other PC/ABS blends such as Bayblend FR 2010, for example. Alcoa forms Chinese Automotive Casting Alliance with SMW Automotive Hong Kong 15 August 2007 - Alcoa Alcoa announced today that it has signed an agreement with SMW Automotive Hong Kong to form an alliance to produce cast aluminum chassis and suspension components and modules for the automotive industry in China, South Korea, Japan and the Asia Pacific region. Alcoa Foundation supports Better Housing Coalition Sustainable Home Development Project 14 August 2007 - Alcoa Alcoa Foundation announced today that it is providing the Better Housing Coalition of Richmond, Virginia with funding totaling approximately $137,000 over three years to support the construction of high performance, energy efficient homes for first time low to-moderate income homebuyers in a new BHC division called Winchester Forest. Makrolon in medical technology sector: Micro forceps and scissors for ophthalmic surgery 14 August 2007 - Bayer MaterialScience AG The level of vision-impairing retinal disease being diagnosed by eye specialists is growing. Most cases are due to macular degeneration, or AMD for short, which is particularly prevalent among the older generation. Alcon Grieshaber AG, a leading medical technology manufacturer based in Schaffhausen, Switzerland, has developed a new generation of surgical instruments to help combat this problem. The Grieshaber Revolution DSP micro forceps and scissors have the advantage over similar commercial instruments that they can be freely rotated while being used. Highly functional housing for professional light consoles 14 August 2007 - Bayer MaterialScience AG The Maxxyz model from Danish firm Martin Professional is a professional light console that provides programmers and light designers with many different options for creating the perfect show. The housing is made by Dupont plastic ApS from the flame-retardant polyurethane integral skin foam Baydur 110 FR from Bayer MaterialScience, supplied by BaySystems BÜFA. Thermoplastics Testing Center automates fire testing:Shorter throughput times 14 August 2007 - Bayer MaterialScience AG Automation of the UL fire tests results in a faster testing run, which considerably reduces customers’ waiting times. The results are also more reproducible and more objective than those obtained by manual measurement. GE Healthcare turns information into insight 14 August 2007 - AZDEL GE Healthcare, a division of General Electric Company unveils breakthrough efforts to seamlessly connect clinicians across the healthcare continuum, from the origination of treatment to its successful completion and from revenue cycle acceleration to clinical workflow optimization. GE Enterprise access wireless solution gains momentum with hospitals 14 August 2007 - AZDEL GE Healthcare and MobileAccess announced today that more than 10 hospitals in the last quarter have selected GE Enterprise Access as their universal wireless platform for hospitals. The Consumer Health World Conference recently named GE Enterprise Access as the “Best Mobile Technology for Improving Patient Care.” GEnx Engine takes its first flight on GE’s flying test-bed 14 August 2007 - AZDEL The GEnx engine took to the skies today in Victorville, California, marking the start of flight-testing on GE’s 747 flying test-bed. During the four-hour first flight, the GEnx-1B engine demonstrated aircraft systems and instrumentation functionality, climbed to close to 40,000 feet and established engine performance baseline for flight-testing. New software tool DPP based on neural networks 13 August 2007 - Bayer MaterialScience AG Bayer MaterialScience AG regards itself not just as a raw materials supplier but also as a solution provider driving innovations in materials, technologies and processes, either on its own or in cooperation with customers. The most recent example of this is a new simulation and calculation tool called Design & Processing Properties. It has been developed by the company's specialists for injection molded parts and tooling, and was recently made available to customers online. New solvent-free, one-component polyurethane dispersions 13 August 2007 - Bayer MaterialScience AG The Coatings, Adhesives, Sealants Business Unit of Bayer MaterialScience AG has extended its range of solvent-free products with the addition of two Bayhydrol polyurethane dispersions specially developed for the coating of plastics. Alcoa-SIE cargo conversions 757-200ASF receives FAA STC 13 August 2007 - Alcoa 'Receiving the Supplemental Type Certificate for our 757-200 14+ design provides the platform for our launch product. This aircraft provides longer range and a larger payload than the B727 while delivering superior operating economics based around a simple design that retains more of the 757’s original structure. New PAS 5500/1100TM system combines 90 WPH productivity with imaging performance 13 August 2007 - ASML Netherlands B.V. ASML introduced its newest 193nm Step & Scan lithography tool for high-volume production of semiconductor devices at the 100nm technology node. The PAS 5500/1100TM system provides the highest value of ownership for leading-edge IC makers by combining a 0.75 numerical aperture lens, improved leveling performance and industry-leading overlay with an exposure capacity exceeding 90 200mm wafers per hour at a dose of 20 mJ/cm2. Sereno, team discover prehistoric giant Sarcosuchus imperator in African desert 13 August 2007 - University of Chicago Paleontologist Paul Sereno has uncovered the remains of a giant prehistoric crocodile from the African Sahara that dwarfs its modern counterparts. The animal, called Sarcosuchus imperator (“flesh crocodile emperor”), grew to a length of 40 feet and weighed eight tons, twice as much as an elephant. Modern crocodiles rarely exceed 14 feet and weigh no more than half a ton. Gesturing aids thinking, memory 13 August 2007 - University of Chicago Susan Goldin-Meadow and her colleagues have discovered that gesturing while speaking aids a speaker’s memory when explaining information that was previously learned. Study conducted in Chicago neighborhoods calls ‘broken-windows’ theory into question 13 August 2007 - University of Chicago A major study by University researchers who videotaped street activity on thousands of blocks throughout Chicago shows there is a much smaller connection than commonly believed between a neighborhood’s appearance and its crime rate. Brain activity is influenced by chemosignals, University researchers find 12 August 2007 - University of Chicago University researchers have found for the first time that airborne “chemosignals,” substances undetectable as odors, have a measurable impact on brain metabolism, according. Prenatal exposure to methamphetamine increases risk to males who use drug in teen or adult years 12 August 2007 - University of Chicago Exposure before birth to methamphetamine, the world’s second most widely used illicit drug, according to the World Health Organization, renders males, even as adults, much more susceptible to the drug’s brain-damaging effects, reveal University researchers in a study performed on mice. Herbal supplements may cause risks for patients anticipating surgeries 12 August 2007 - University of Chicago A new study by researchers in the University Medical Center gives patients and physicians specific recommendations for discontinuing the use of herbal medications prior to surgery. In the Journal of the American Medical Association, the three physicians assess the interactions between herbs, anesthesia and surgery and suggest ways to reduce the associated risks. University astronomers learn more about possible dangers of solar flares during solar maximum 12 August 2007 - University of Chicago Once every 11 years, the sun’s magnetic field flips over, causing a great deal of commotion; large solar flares send great geysers of hot gas and huge quantities of charged particles erupting from the surface and streaming into space during a period called “solar maximum.” Molecular mechanism is key in brain development 12 August 2007 - University of Chicago Elizabeth Grove, Assistant Professor in Neurobiology, Pharmacology & Physiology, and Tomomi Fukuchi-Shimogori, a postdoctoral fellow, have discovered a molecular mechanism associated with brain development. New lithography system with the highest numerical aperture 12 August 2007 - ASML Netherlands B.V. ASML Holding NV announced a new lithography system with the highest numerical aperture, 1.2, in the semiconductor industry. The ASML TWINSCAN XT:1700i system is a 193 nm immersion scanner capable of volume chip production at the 45 nm node. A new short height design that delivers big for soft drink bottlers 12 August 2007 - Alcoa Alcoa Closure Systems International introduces the 28mm Xtra-Lok mini, a beverage closure that delivers maximum performance for soft drink bottlers, while returning to a more classic and easier opening profile design. Autotype introduced SIGMAGraF WS to range of specialist films 12 August 2007 - Autotype International Reinforcing its reputation for delivering market driven technical innovations, Autotype International Ltd has introduced SIGMAGraF WS to its range of specialist films for the production of high-quality displays. Makrolon in new applications: Focusing optics made of polycarbonate for LEDs 12 August 2007 - Bayer MaterialScience AG Focusing optics with a free-form surface are usually very thick injection moldings with extreme variations in wall thicknesses. Thanks to special rheological calculation programs, Bayer MaterialScience can simulate mold filling precisely. Bodywork parts with Class A surfaces using film insert molding 11 August 2007 - Bayer MaterialScience AG One method of producing plastic bodywork parts that enable color matching to neighboring metal parts is through back-injecting pre-formed films with thermoplastics, also known as film insert molding. The film is responsible for the surface quality of the component (Class A) and the back-injection material is responsible for its mechanical and thermal properties in particular, such as stiffness and thermal expansion. Autoype launches of its innovative HiForm product 11 August 2007 - Autotype International Autotype International Limited, the UK’s leading film-coating specialist, is challenging the conventional wisdom of hardcoating with the launch of its innovative HiForm product. Alcoa KAMA & Cereplast announce production of sustainable thermoformable extruded sheet 11 August 2007 - Alcoa Alcoa KAMA, the sheet extrusion division of Reynolds Food Packaging, an Alcoa business, and Cereplast, Inc., a producer of proprietary bio-based resins, announced that Alcoa KAMA plans to produce plastic sheet for thermoforming and other markets using Cereplast’s starch-based, bio-degradable resins. The extruded sheet in rollstock form will have wide applications for food service packaging and other uses. New immersion lithography system a 0.85 NA, 193 nm pre-production lithography scanner 11 August 2007 - ASML Netherlands B.V. ASML Holding NV announced the industry’s first immersion lithography system, the TWINSCAN XT:1250i, a 0.85 NA, 193 nm pre-production lithography scanner that combines the improved depth of focus of immersion tools with the precision of “dry” lithography systems. ASML has already booked a customer order for the XT:1250i with initial delivery set. Researchers discover mutations that increase risk of Crohn’s 11 August 2007 - University of Chicago A team of researchers at the University, the University of Michigan and others has identified the first genetic abnormality that increases susceptibility to Crohn’s disease. Researchers find cause for neonatal diabetes 11 August 2007 - University of Chicago In a report in The New England Journal of Medicine, an international team of researchers from Chicago, the University of Bergen, Norway, and the San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Italy, describes two cases of neonatal diabetes resulting from a complete deficiency of glucokinase, an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the regulation of blood-sugar levels. Astronomers find clues to heavy elements in universe 11 August 2007 - University of Chicago This image of a portion of the Small Magellanic Cloud was taken by the Hubble Space Telescope. Welty and his colleagues used the HST imaging spectrograph to probe the space between the stars of the Small Magellanic Cloud. DASI data support inflation theory 10 August 2007 - University of Chicago The leading theory regarding the origin of the universe has just passed another major test, one posed by University astronomers and their colleagues working at a National Science Foundation observatory at the South Pole. Physics of fluids shows promise for coating of transplanted cells 10 August 2007 - University of Chicago Sidney Nagel, the Stein-Freiler Distinguished Service Professor in Physics, and Milan Mrksich, Associate Professor in Chemistry, have completed the first major step in developing a coating to protect islets from the immune system. They have developed one of the world’s smallest shrink-wrap systems, one that may eventually be used for cell transplantation in patients suffering from diabetes millitus. Professor finds that nonhuman primates have evolutionary reason to bond with their offspring 10 August 2007 - University of Chicago Dario Maestripieri, Assistant Professor in the Committee on Human Development and the Committee on Evolutionary Biology, has studied the behaviors of nonhuman primates in his research. His most recent study found that these primates bond with their offspring and demonstrate a strong motivation to look after their young. ASML now offers the highest numerical aperture at every major production wavelength 10 August 2007 - ASML Netherlands B.V. ASML introduced the industry's first KrF (248nm) Step & Scan 300mm dual stage lithography system capable of 110nm resolution. The TWINSCAN AT:850B(tm) features Carl Zeiss Starlith(tm)850 advanced projection optics with a numerical aperture of 0.80, which is the highest NA available in a KrF system. Ferrari Joins Alcoa in opening new Spaceframe Manufacturing Plant 10 August 2007 - Alcoa Alcoa announced that it has opened its new automotive assembly plant in Modena, Italy. The new facility covers more than 5,000 square meters and features state-of-the-art manufacturing technology. The plant, which employs 75, required an investment by the world’s leading aluminium producer of more than one million euros. New AutoForm PM line of polymethyl methacrylate films 10 August 2007 - Autotype International The new AutoForm PM line of polymethyl methacrylate films brings enhanced pencil hardness to the AUTOFLEX IMD product range. These innovative films are designed to allow shallow formability by thermoforming or pressure forming while retaining all their abrasion resistant properties. Lightfast, scratch-proof decorative films for kiteboards made of aliphatic TPU 10 August 2007 - Bayer MaterialScience AG He’s the master of two elements: air and water. Balanced on his small kiteboard and pulled at breathtaking speed across the crests of the waves by his power kite as he prepares to jump, Swedish kitesurfing champion Christian Dittrich knows he’s got an audience. He recently won the ‘Most Technical Kiteloop’ category at this year’s kite event at the Baltic Sea resort of Laboe. Bayer MaterialScience expands MDI production capacity in Tarragona to 150,000 tons a year 09 August 2007 - Bayer MaterialScience AG Bayer MaterialScience AG has now completed the expansion of its production facilities for methylene diphenyl diisocyanate in Tarragona, Spain by 50,000 tons a year to an annual capacity of 150,000 tons. As a result, the company has a global production capacity of almost 1.1 million tons per year. Plant capacity at Tarragona for the intermediates carbon monoxide and methylene diphenyl diamine has also been expanded. New range of high performance films for Autotype 09 August 2007 - Autotype International Autotype has launched a new range of high performance films, called SIGMAGraF UVjet, which, for the first time, enable printers to purchase one type of film that can be used for floor graphics, indoor panels or outdoor display purposes. The new films utilise Autotype's proven unique hard surface coating and ink primer technologies to produce a range of highly versatile, high clarity products that enable printers to make significant reductions in stock holding and production costs. Alcoa teams with Jay Leno's Big Dog Garage and GM Advanced Design on Leno's New EcoJet 09 August 2007 - Alcoa Alcoa announced that it has been working with Jay Leno’s Big Dog Garage and General Motors Advanced Design to provide structural engineering expertise, spaceframe technology and high-performance forged aluminum wheels for Mr. Leno’s EcoJet, introduced this week at SEMA in Las Vegas. Alcan supports Ghana’s efforts to achieve new development goals 09 August 2007 - Alcan Inc Alcan Inc. announced that it will support the Government of Ghana’s efforts to achieve the Millennium Development Goals through a 3-year US$300,000 collaboration, which is aligned with the Company’s commitment to the United Nations Global Compact. The project is designed to support the development plans of the Bibiani Anhwiaso Bekwai District, where Alcan’s 80 percent-held joint-venture, Ghana Bauxite Company Ltd., operates a bauxite mine. Researchers find cause of common genetic disorder 09 August 2007 - University of Chicago Researchers from the University, Columbia University and Baylor University have separately identified genetic abnormalities in mice that are responsible for the multiple malformations associated with a human disorder called DiGeorge syndrome, which is the second most common genetic cause of heart defects. Research shows students who begin school in small classes have an edge 09 August 2007 - University of Chicago Students beginning school in small classes continue to benefit many years later and outscore other students in high school mathematics, according to new research co-authored by scholars at the University. Mathematicians view unstable activity in brain to better understand circuitry of visual cortex 09 August 2007 - University of Chicago Scientists are deducing the internal circuitry of the visual brain by mathematically reproducing the geometric hallucinations people see when they ingest mind-altering drugs, view bright, flickering lights or encounter near-death experiences. Environment influences children’s ability to form, comprehend complex sentences 08 August 2007 - University of Chicago University researchers show in a study, that the language environment children experience greatly influences their individual differences in syntax acquisition. This finding challenges a long-standing contention that syntax, the organization of words into sentences, develops uniformly and naturally because of inborn characteristics. Hospitalists, a new medical specialty, reduce mortality, cut costs, study shows 08 August 2007 - University of Chicago Physicians who concentrate on hospital care produce better results than the general internists who have traditionally managed hospital stays, a study by University researchers showed. University physician utilizing Argonne software designed to study energy beams 08 August 2007 - University of Chicago The proposed Rare Isotope Accelerator at Argonne National Laboratory will provide nuclear physicists with an unprecedented variety of beams of short-lived radioactive elements, many at intensities more than 100,000 times those currently available. These beams also will produce high heat levels. Parc Musical Alcan unveils musical characters at Festival International de Jazz de Montréal 08 August 2007 - Alcan Inc Alcan Inc., co-presenter of the Festival International de Jazz de Montréal, announced today that four new interactive and educational characters will be welcoming visitors to the Parc Musical Alcan, located on the outdoor site of the Festival. Alcoa wheels standard for Volvo Trucks North America 08 August 2007 - Alcoa Alcoa Wheel Products announced today that it is now the standard supplier of forged aluminum truck wheels for Volvo Trucks North America. New keypads for industrial and computer equipment for use in demanding environments 08 August 2007 - Autotype International The industry leading Autotex polyester film from Autotype International is being used by Hoffmann+Krippner, one of Europe’s leading membrane keyboard manufacturers, to enable the company to produce keypads for industrial and computer equipment for use in demanding environments, that are subject to high levels of dust or humidity. Firm foothold in the world’s largest shoe producing country 08 August 2007 - Bayer MaterialScience AG The new Global Footwear Competence Center of Bayer MaterialScience in Shanghai is equipped with the most advanced footwear-related facilities. Bayer MaterialScience has established its Global Footwear Competence Center in Shanghai, China, where it will spearhead the development of advanced materials and provide technical support to the global footwear industry. Bayer MaterialScience production facilities in Krefeld-Uerdingen working at full capacity again 07 August 2007 - Bayer MaterialScience AG Bayer MaterialScience’s carbon monoxide, diphenylmethane diisocyanate and polycarbonate production facilities at its Krefeld-Uerdingen site are once again operating at full capacity. SIGMAGraF is first display film to offer anti-glare and anti-grafiti 07 August 2007 - Autotype International The leading global developer and manufacturer of high performance films and coatings, MacDermid Autotype, has introduced what is believed to be the world’s first films for display applications that combine both anti-glare and anti-graffiti properties in a single material. Alcoa reaches agreement with International Association of Machinists in Cleveland 07 August 2007 - Alcoa Alcoa announced that the International Association of Machinists, District 54, Lodge 10, has ratified a new 4-year labor agreement at Alcoa’s Cleveland Works facility. Alcan supports innovation & excellence with Jeune Chambre de Commerce de Montreal 07 August 2007 - Alcan Inc Alcan Inc. announced that it is partnering with the Jeune Chambre de commerce de Montréal to sponsor activities related to the JCCM’s 75th Anniversary, and launch the “Young Innovative Leader in Quebec” award category for the ARISTA Provincial Competition. DASI grows into new fields of observation after latest results 07 August 2007 - University of Chicago When University physicist Sean Carroll began planning a schedule of speakers for the COSMO-02 workshop that assembled 275 cosmologists in Chicago last month, John Carlstrom, the S. Chandrasekhar Professor in Astronomy & Astrophysics and the College, was not on the program. But Carroll gratefully made last-minute arrangements that would allow Carlstrom to announce his team’s latest experimental results from the Degree Angular Scale Interferometer. International sex survey shows women do not experience age-related sexual dysfunction 07 August 2007 - University of Chicago Earlier this month, Edward Laumann, the George Herbert Meade Distinguished Service Professor in Sociology, presented his latest research results on the differences between men and women in age-related sexual dysfunction at a conference of the International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health. Researchers study incarcerated mothers’ prospects 07 August 2007 - University of Chicago On any given day, there are approximately 84,000 women in federal and state prisons and nearly 70,000 additional women incarcerated in county jails, numbers that are now doubling every seven to eight years. Most of these women were custodial parents prior to their incarceration, so when they go to prison, children are often left behind. Gene therapy boosts chemo treatment 06 August 2007 - University of Chicago Researchers at the University have found a way to combine cancer chemotherapy with gene therapy designed to disrupt the growth of blood vessels to a tumor. The combination, tested in mice, is far more effective than standard chemotherapy and has no additional side effects. This innovative approach is described in the August issue of the Journal of Clinical Investigation. Research may aid in rapid diagnosis, treatment of AMKL 06 August 2007 - University of Chicago Researchers at the University have identified a gene defect that causes the development of leukemia in children with Down syndrome. The discovery could speed diagnosis and provide a new target for therapy. Researchers define infants’ quantitative abilities, find flaws in earlier research on development 06 August 2007 - University of Chicago Although many people would like to think their babies are bright enough to count before their first birthday, and some child psychologists have suggested they can, this possibility is disputed in the results of a 10-year evaluation by leading scholars at the University. Alcan announces plans to restructure & sellits Affimet Aluminum Recycling business in France 06 August 2007 - Alcan Inc Alcan announced that it has begun consultations with unions and employee representatives for a proposed sale of selected assets at the Company’s Affimet aluminum recycling plant in Compiègne, France. The Company expects to incur a pre-tax, non-recurring, charge of approximately US$40 million, principally cash, covering environmental provisions, dismantling costs and severance. Yale University study shows how Alcoa encourages employee use of preventive care services 06 August 2007 - Alcoa A study conducted by Yale University and published in the November/December issue of Health Affairs journal shows how Alcoa was able to use different cost sharing approaches in its employee benefits plans to encourage employees’ use of preventive care services while at the same time helping control the company’s overall health care costs. CPS announces new UK manufacturing facility for latest screen print chemistry 06 August 2007 - Autotype International CPS Chemical Products and Services, the leading European manufacturer of high quality, environmentally friendly chemicals, solvents and associated products for the screen and offset print industries, has announced that it is to open a new UK manufacturing facility at the European headquarters of its sister company, MacDermid Autotype. Bayer MaterialScience lifts TDI Force Majeure 06 August 2007 - Bayer MaterialScience AG Bayer MaterialScience LLC has lifted Force Majeure regarding its ability to supply toluene di-isocyanate products in North America. Autotex hardcoated film protects electronics in mine support systems 05 August 2007 - Autotype International The latest Autotex hardcoated polyester film, developed and manufactured by MacDermid Autotype, is playing a crucial role in an innovative range of industrial control panels, used in high performance mining systems. Meeting the highest demands: Studio monitors with totally authentic sound 05 August 2007 - Bayer MaterialScience AG The loudspeaker front of the O 300 near-field reference monitor from Klein+Hummel is manufactured using Baydur 60 polyurethane integral skin foam from Bayer MaterialScience. The high-frequency, mid-range and bass systems are integrated in the baffle, which is responsible for the outstanding sound quality produced by the loudspeaker. Alcoa to re-position downstream operations 05 August 2007 - Alcoa Alcoa announced it will re-position several of its downstream operations in order to further improve returns and profitability through a targeted restructuring of operations and the creation of a soft alloy extrusion joint venture with the intention of eventually offering the venture to the public markets through an IPO. Alcan lays cornerstone of Slovakian aluminum extrusion plant 05 August 2007 - Alcan Inc Alcan Extruded Products, a business unit of Alcan Engineered Products, today laid the cornerstone of its new aluminum extrusion plant in Slovakia. The site’s new production capacity is expected to come on stream this year. Researchers show people overestimate ability to effectively communicate ambiguous information 05 August 2007 - University of Chicago Most people seriously overestimate their ability to communicate effectively, even when dealing with information they know to be ambiguous, say Chicago psychologists Boaz Keysar and Anne Henly. In a recent study of 40 pairs of listeners and speakers, “When it comes to communication, people overestimate their skill,” said Keysar, Associate Professor in Psychology and the College. Researchers develop sensors with ability to measure extremely large magnetic fields 05 August 2007 - University of Chicago The silver chalcogenides magnetic sensor, developed by researchers at the University and Argonne National Laboratory, has been used to make precise measurements of magnetic fields as high as 600,000 Gauss, or more than a million times Earth’s magnetic field. Hillocks finds that standardized writing assessments may be harmful to children’s learning 05 August 2007 - University of Chicago George Hillocks Jr., Professor in English Language & Literature and Director of the Master of Arts Program in Teaching, has spent much of the past decade trying to determine what effect standardized writing assessments have on writing ability. Nicotine extends duration of pleasant effects of dopamine 04 August 2007 - University of Chicago Brief exposure to low levels of nicotine not only boosts the brain’s ‘reward’ system but also blocks a rival system that limits the duration of such rewards, report University researchers in the journal Neuron. The finding helps scientists understand why nicotine addiction takes root so quickly and lasts so long. Chemical method makes further investigation of carbohydrates possible 04 August 2007 - University of Chicago University scientists have described the first chip-based chemical strategy for rapidly screening carbohydrates for biologically useful activity. The technique enables researchers to scan a single chip for literally thousands of different biologically active compounds that could someday play a key role in the treatment of disease or as a diagnostic for biological warfare agents. Male-driven evolution confirmed in Li’s study of mutations 04 August 2007 - University of Chicago Researchers from the University have estimated that genetic mutations, the raw material for evolution, occur 5.25 times more often in males than in females. This discovery should lay to rest any doubts raised by recent studies questioning the dominant role that males play in producing mutations for molecular evolution. Alcan introduces N2 Nual Cable to mitigate effects of harmonic currents in electrical systems 04 August 2007 - Alcan Inc Alcan Cable introduced today a new CSA-approved, multi-conductor armoured cable assembly to mitigate the effects generated by harmonic currents in electrical systems. The N2 NUAL, a type ACWU-90 cable with two full size neutral conductors, is a cost-effective solution for use in commercial and institutional buildings such as banks, data centres, hospitals and computer laboratories. Alcoa Howmet's Morristown, Tennessee Facility Expands Capacity 04 August 2007 - Alcoa Alcoa announced that it will invest more than $6 million to expand core manufacturing capabilities at its Howmet Product and Services’ Morristown, Tennessee operation. Construction for the 16,000 square-foot addition to the plant began this month. Head restraints made from polyurethane integral skin foam ensure comfort in all-terrain vehicles 04 August 2007 - Bayer MaterialScience AG In Suzuki's Jimny model, four head restraints made from polyurethane soft integral skin foam based on the raw materials BayflexK 5102 and DesmodurPA 50 from Bayer MaterialScience ensure a safe and comfortable ride. The latest Autotex hardcoated polyester films are crucial in a range of advanced electroluminescent 04 August 2007 - Autotype International The latest Autotex hardcoated polyester films are playing a crucial role in a range of advanced electroluminescent lamps being used for dashboard displays and instrumentation in the 200mph Ascari KZ1 supercar. Manufactured by Pacel Electronics, the EL lamps have been designed and developed to offer exceptional levels of performance, combining excellent levels of light transmission and stability under a wide range of operating temperatures with an extended functional life. High gloss scratch resistant film adds class to new Mercedes 03 August 2007 - Autotype International The latest high quality hardcoated polycarbonate film from MacDermid Autotype, the leading global developer and manufacturer of high performance films and coatings, has been selected by Daimler Chrysler to be incorporated into the new Mercedes S Class. The Autoflex XtraForm film is used in the manufacture of 44 different three dimensional interior components, including dashboard, lighting and window switches, producing a high quality aesthetic finish combined with excellent scratch resistance and optical properties. We want to be the supplier of choice in this fast developing region 03 August 2007 - Bayer MaterialScience AG Bayer MaterialScience AG and Pearl Insulation Materials Industries LLC had invited customers and representatives of authorities in the Middle East region to celebrate the launch of BaySystems Pearl, the newly established polyurethane systems house joint venture of both companies in Dubai. Alcoa Foundation calls for Global action on sustainability and conservation 03 August 2007 - Alcoa This will mark the launch of the Alcoa Foundation Global Conservation and Sustainability Network, a platform for future collaboration and more informed decision making on sustainability issues by industry, governments, and communities around the world. Alcan joins business leaders initiative on human rights 03 August 2007 - Alcan Inc Alcan announced that it has joined the Business Leaders Initiative on Human Rights. BLIHR’s principal purpose is to find practical ways of applying the aspirations of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights within a business context and to inspire other businesses to do likewise. Structure of anthrax toxin offers clues to treatment 03 August 2007 - University of Chicago Researchers from the University and Boston Biomedical Research Institute have described the three-dimensional structure of edema factor, one of the three toxins that make anthrax so deadly. This finding, published in today’s issue of Nature, is a crucial step toward designing drugs to block the harmful effects of anthrax and perhaps other bacterial toxins. Researchers discover women inherit male odor preferences through paternal genes 03 August 2007 - University of Chicago University researchers are receiving international attention for a recent study of women’s scent preferences, which was published in this month’s issue of the journal Nature Genetics. Martha McClintock, the David Lee Shillinglaw Distinguished Service Professor in Psychology; Carole Ober, Professor in Human Genetics; and Suma Jacob, (A.B. ’91; Ph.D. ’98; M.D. ’01) a University postdoctoral fellow and lead investigator for the study, discovered that women prefer the scent of some men over other men because of genes they have inherited from their fathers. Microprobe aids in new collaborative research on chromosomes 03 August 2007 - University of Chicago This false-color image of the distribution of calcium in the chromosomes of a deer, was obtained using secondary ion mass spectrometry with the University’s high-resolution scanning ion microprobe. Such images are revealing new details about cellular reproduction. Variations discovered in fourth chromosome of fruit fly 03 August 2007 - University of Chicago Researchers in Ecology & Evolution overturned a classic belief that has been published in both genetics and evolution textbooks since the 1930s, when they reported in the Jan. 4 issue of Science that the tiny fourth chromosome of the fruit fly, believed to be identical in every member of the species, actually has several regions that vary. Researchers measure importance of natural selection at genetic level 03 August 2007 - University of Chicago Researchers from the University have demonstrated that natural selection plays a much larger role in molecular evolution than anyone had suspected. Their report, published in the Nature, shows that about 25 percent of genes are evolving rapidly in response to competitive pressures. A second paper by other researchers in the same issue confirms this discovery. New study by economist Levitt determines risks of fatal crashes, strategies to reduce accidents 02 August 2007 - University of Chicago Drunk drivers are at least 13 times more likely to cause a fatal crash than are sober drivers, according to a new study by Steven Levitt, Professor in Economics, and Jack Porter, professor of economics at Harvard University. Experiment results lead to technology in nanoscale structures 02 August 2007 - University of Chicago The image above is a false-color transmission electron microscope image of self-assembled silver nanowires that were produced in the laboratory of Heinrich Jaeger, Professor in Physics. The center-to-center spacing between neighboring wires is 50 nanometers. Experiments suggest silicon is an element in Earth’s core 02 August 2007 - University of Chicago Researchers in Geophysical Sciences used a diamond anvil cell to simulate high pressures found at Earth’s core. The chemical ingredients at the center of the Earth are surprisingly complicated, according to high-temperature, high-pressure experiments conducted by University scientists. Alcan helps launch global map on energy and climate 02 August 2007 - Alcan Inc Alcan helped launch the first-ever global map on energy and climate today, along with its project partners, the energy company Centrica and corporate responsibility specialist Maplecroft. Alcoa Fastening Systems qualifies SAE AS5550 fluid fitting 02 August 2007 - Alcoa Alcoa announced that Alcoa Fastening Systems successfully qualified its RFKA9900-13 (SAE AS5550) flareless, plug-in union, Ring Locked fitting series for use on the 787 Dreamliner. This high-pressure titanium hydraulic adapter was selected by Boeing for its lightweight construction and dual seal protection, providing up to 49% weight savings over the previous design for this application. Each aircraft is expected to employ over 120 of these parts. SIGMAGraF Antigraffitti Certification 02 August 2007 - Autotype International The leading global developer and manufacturer of high performance films and coatings, MacDermid Autotype, has introduced what is believed to be the world’s first films for display applications that combine both anti-glare and anti-graffiti properties in a single material. Bayer MaterialScience intends to expand annual capacity of TDI production facility in Shanghai 02 August 2007 - Bayer MaterialScience AG Bayer MaterialScience AG intends to boost the annual capacity of the planned plant for producing toluene diisocyanate in Shanghai from 160,000 to 300,000 tons. This Bayer subgroup is harnessing an innovative process technology in the construction that, among other things, enables investment and energy costs to be dramatically reduced. Bayer establishes APAC spray competency center in Shanghai 01 August 2007 - Bayer MaterialScience AG Bayer MaterialScience's Polymer Research and Development Center in Shanghai features state-of-the-art polyurethane spray technology. This is enabling development work for a wide range of applications such as quality bathtubs in China, as well as in the wider Asian region. Multitec allows for high production efficiency for lightweight multilayer structure by wet-in-wet spray technology without post curing. New software turns image analysis from art to science 01 August 2007 - Autotype International MacDermid Autotype, the leading manufacturer of advanced films and chemicals for the screen printing industry, has launched a software package, designed to make it quick and simple for printers to assess and improve the quality of printed images. Called Image Analyser, the new software package has been developed to run on a standard Windows based PC and, for the first time, makes it possible for printers to measure cost effectively the quality of screen printed text and graphics. To design a progressive die to produce an automotive component with a narrow stock width 01 August 2007 - ESI Group “Computer simulation reduced the amount of time and money required to determine a successful forming process based on the defined stock width from an estimated $18,000 to only $3,600, concluded Rick Barnard, Precise Engineering’s General Manager. “The key to these savings was the use of PAM-STAMP 2G to quickly and inexpensively simulate the performance of a wide range of die designs. Discovery of inheritability of social behavior traits has human implications 01 August 2007 - University of Chicago In a study conducted by Dario Maestripieri, Associate Professor in Human Development, rhesus macaque babies were found to exhibit the behaviors of their birth mothers, though the babies were adopted and raised by foster mothers. Phenomenon found in droplets may lead to microscopic uses 01 August 2007 - University of Chicago A water drop drips through silicone oil showing that the neck of the drop is initially a smooth parabola around the drop’s narrowest point and then becomes a long and thin thread. Nasal sprays prove most effective as first line of treatment for seasonal allergies 01 August 2007 - University of Chicago Researchers from the University have demonstrated that corticosteroid nasal sprays are more effective than antihistamines when used “as needed” for treatment of seasonal allergies. This finding, published in the Archives of Internal Medicine, suggests that the current guidelines and prescribing patterns, which favor the use of antihistamines as the first-line treatment for mild or moderate allergies, need to be revised. Alcan becomes leading heavy gauge plate aluminum supplier for the F-35, joint strike fighter 01 August 2007 - Alcan Inc Alcan Rolled Products, Ravenswood, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Alcan Inc., has entered into a multi-year agreement with Transtar Metals to supply heavy gauge aluminum plate in support of Transtar’s supply chain management program with Lockheed-Martin, Northrop-Grumman and BAE Systems.

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