Odor-Fighting Nanotech

The ExtremeTech blog notes a development by Pennsylvania-based NanoHorizons Inc. to market gold and silver nanoparticles that have antimicrobial properties. These particles can be added to clothing to fight odors, to mascara to prevent eye infections, and to food packaging to extend shelf life. According to the press release, prices for small quantities will range from $100 to $400 per liter -- a price point attractive enough for manufacturers.

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10-Point Plan for Better Homeland Security

W. David Stephenson, an expert on crisis management, has posted on his blog a 10-point plan for improving the way we manage homeland security issues. Among the key points: Focus on information rather than pacification and propaganda; use technologies such as cell phones, wireless PDAs and text messaging to keep people informed; work more at the grass-roots level; emphasize advanced planning; and educate the public on cultural differences. All of which, Stephenson asserts, the government has thus far failed to do.



Ironically, this critique coincides with yesterday's abrupt resignation of DHS cybersecurity chief Amit Yoran after only a year with the agency, citing frustration over the government's lack of attention to information security issues.

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