Embryonic stem cells differentiate into different types of adult cells, in vivo. But growing a specific type of cell in a petri dish requires specific chemical and physical cues. A new method supplies growth factors inside biodegradable dyed microspheres, and uses spectroscopy and fluorescent microscopy to track their location.

If there is or was life on Mars, how would we know? Researchers have varying ideas for finding organic matter. One is using Laser Desorption Fourier Transform Mass Spectrometry to identify organic ions captured in jarosite minerals. A recent paper in Astrobiology describes the results of performing the test on terrestrial jarosites.

Do Nanoparticles play a role in disease? Until recently, we had no way of knowing. Advances in microscopy now allow researchers to observe Nanoparticles interacting with cells, exciting physiology researchers. Researchers report that Nanoparticles may contribute to atherosclerosis, kidney stones, gall stones, and periodontal disease.

Sometimes rockets blow up, which isn't too surprising for an object made mostly of fuel. But until recently, they sometimes blew up inexplicably, which is much more worrying. A new high-speed filtered imaging technique shows that spinning sound waves in the combustion chamber can blow a rocket to pieces.

Traditional crime investigation uses the lead in bullets to detect gun shot residue, but that won't work with the new lead-free ammunition. A method called solid phase micro-extraction combined with gas chromatography can provide the same information. The method can provide residue analysis on a single gunpowder particle.

Chromatography columns can encounter extreme conditions. A new column for high-temperature gas chromatography (GC) resists damage at temperatures up to 450°C. The metal column is based on stainless steel capillary technology. A proprietary manufacturing process renders the steel inert and enhances stationary phase bonding.

How can you tell whether or not your probe is reading an accurate temperature? A surface probe calibrator with a five-point NIST-traceable calibration certificate offers a surface with a very uniform heated surface. No matter where you place the probe, you can be assured of the correct temperature.

When phenolic coatings are baked, some water results from heat-induced condensation. ASTM International D 7245 standard counts this water as part of the total water measured, rather than treating it as a VOC. Because one test determines both water and volatiles, it might also test other molecules in the coatings.

David's Weakness

Michelangelo's marble statue of David is among the world's best known. But after holding a pose for four centuries, David's ankles must be killing him. A new computer modeling method confirms that a great deal of stress is located in his lower legs. Imaging methods that can pinpoint stress before it causes something to break is useful not just for toothsome sculptures, but for living patients and many industrial and civil applications as well.

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Can Technology Counter Counterfeit Drugs?

How can we quash the counterfeit drug trade? Is easier testing the tool the FDA needs, or is political will a bigger issue? Does the entire pharmaceutical system need an overhaul?