Top News of Last Week with ANA
Azad News Agency (ANA) published a number of scientific and technological news during the past week whose top ones are as follows:
Iranian Knowledge-Based Firm Makes Biorecombinant Products for Skin Treatment
An Iranian knowledge-based company managed to design and produce biorecombinant drugs for the treatment of skin diseases.
“These products are based on natural ingredients like edible mushrooms, spirulina algae and human blood serum and can help with wound healing, rejuvenation and skin regeneration without causing allergies or chemical side effects,” said Maria Beyhaqqi, the managing director of the knowledge-based company.
“In our regenerative products, we have used edible mushrooms Shinage, spirulina algae and human blood serum as drug delivery systems and carriers, which are effective in treating many skin diseases,” she added.
Noting that in addition to these compounds, medicinal plant extracts are also used to reduce melanin production and fight free radicals which helps to brighten and rejuvenate the skin, Beyhaqqi said, “Our engineered compounds cause skin cell proliferation, collagen regeneration and prevention of wound hyperplasia.”
“In the production process of these drugs, advanced synthesis methods and specific synergistic compounds based on human cells are used, which not only have high and specific performance, but also do not cause any allergies or chemical side effects,” she noted.
Knowledge-Based Firm in Iran Manufactures 3 Ultrasonic Products
Iranian technologists at a knowledge-based company stationed at the International Innovation Zone of Iran produced three products in the field of ultrasonic and acoustics technology development.
Ultrasonic sieve is the first product of the company which uses high-frequency vibrations to prevent clogging of sieve meshes and allows for smoother passage of fine powder particles. This technology is widely used in industries like powder paint, pharmaceuticals, food, and powdered metals.
Ultrasonic welding machine is another product made by the company. This technology is used to weld polymers without the use of glue or direct heat and can be used in high-volume production lines in the automotive, toy, packaging, and home appliance industries. The devices are designed and manufactured in a customized manner to suit the part and application.
Ultrasonic homogenizer is also made by the company which creates cavitation within liquids, allowing for homogenization, emulsification, and acceleration of chemical reactions. Semi-industrial versions of this product are currently used in some pharmaceutical and research production lines.
Iran to Develop Air Taxi, Clean Marine Fuel
The secretary of the Aerospace, Transportation and Urban Development of Iran’s Knowledge-Based Economy Development Headquarters announced plans to develop air taxis and production of low-sulfur fuel by using modern technology.
“On the fuel issue, we are also pursuing the development of a low-sulfur fuel production project in cooperation with the energy sector. Of course, at present several companies in Iran produce this fuel, but there is a need to increase the production capacity and quality of the technologies used so that in addition to meeting domestic needs, exports can also be carried out,” Hossein Shokri said.
“The capacity of the country's existing airports has provided a very suitable basis for the development of air taxis,” he added.
“Around 300 companies are active in this field, many of which cooperate with each other in a chain in the field of design, manufacture, and maintenance of aircraft, satellites, and related systems. Our plan is to increase the number of these companies and expand the knowledge-based economy in this industry,” Shokri said.
16 New Course Titles in Quantum Science Field Introduced to Iranian Universities
The National Science Foundation of Iran announced that 16 new course titles have been introduced to the Iranian universities in the field of quantum science and technology.
The Foundation announced that after a call for ‘Supporting the Teaching of Quantum Sciences and Technologies in Related Fields’, 66 proposals were sent to the foundation by professors, and ultimately 16 proposals were approved and received final approval by the National Science Foundation of Iran.
The evaluation criteria included the expertise of applicants and colleagues, teaching experience, innovation of the proposal, and the quality of the course and syllabi.
It was decided that 16 course titles would be taught at 12 universities in the October semester of the Iranian universities, and the content of all courses would be recorded with the desired quality and approved by the foundation and made available to the foundation along with a 90-minute summary and educational booklet for each course.
Iran-Made Nano-Based Antibacterial Insulation Powder Replaces Roofing Felt
Iranian technologists at a company produced an antibacterial moisture-proofing powder containing nanoparticles which can be an alternative to bitumen and roofing felt.
The company’s product is an antibacterial moisture-proofing powder containing nanoparticles and it has shown effective antibacterial capabilities by utilizing nanotechnology.
The product is used for sealing various surfaces like swimming pools, water tanks, toilets, gable roofs, and retaining walls. High adhesion to various surfaces, easy use, and high speed of implementation are among its advantages which can cover the various needs of the construction industry.
This nano-insulation powder is supplied ready-to-use to the consumer and can be applied by simply adding water and using a brush or roller. After drying, it creates a resistant, durable and moisture-proof layer. High flexibility, easy application on monolith or metal columns, resistance to water pressure and abrasion, and the possibility of vapor passage for the underlying surface are some of the outstanding features of this product.
In addition to its construction capabilities, this powder, using antibacterial nanoparticles, has shown significant performance in combating pathogenic bacteria.
Iranian Scientists Add Air Entraining Agents to Settle Challenge of 3D-Printed Concretes
3D-printed concretes can be damaged by environmental factors due to their structure, and Iranian researchers at Amirkabir University have presented a solution to settle this challenge by using an air entraining agent.
Mohammad Rasoul Givkashi, a graduate of Amirkabir University of Technology, implemented a project titled ‘Evaluating the Durability of 3D Printed Concrete Mixtures Containing Air Entraining Agents’.
“Despite the development of different methods in various industries, the construction industry continues to be largely traditional, while this industry can benefit from the new technologies. Among the latest technologies in this industry is the construction of buildings and infrastructures by using the 3D printing method,” Givkashi said.
Noting that previous studies by researchers have shown that damage to these concretes from frost is a challenge, he said that the research aims to increase the durability of 3D printed concretes by examining the effect of air entraining agent on their various properties.
“In this study, we concluded that if we use optimal amounts of air-entraining admixture and design the concrete mix, we can increase the durability of concrete against frost and help improve its durability against other destructive factors by reducing permeability. In addition, this admixture can also contribute to the new properties of these mixtures, specially rheology,” Givkashi said.
Iranian Gov’t Supports Nat’l Laboratory Network to Develop Research, Technology
The director of Iran's National Laboratory Network, underlined the role of the Network in the development of research and technology.
“This laboratory network has become one of the powerful arms of the development of the science and technology ecosystem by creating an integrated platform for specialized services,” said Amir Younesian.
“Over more than two decades of activity, the laboratory network has provided an integrated platform for researchers, industries, and knowledge-based companies to access specialized services and laboratory infrastructure in the country,” he added.
Younesian described the main goal of the National Laboratory Network as creating justice in access, enhance capacities, and maximize the use of the power of existing equipment in the country, and said, “Efforts have been made to make these capacities available to the scientific community, both in the public and private sectors.”
He also underlined the need for effective sharing of advanced equipment as one of the main requirements for the development of science and technology.
Iranian Gov’t Developing Plans in Microelectronics Field
The secretary of the Headquarters for The Development of Materials and Advanced Manufacturing Technologies announced that the Iranian government is developing plans to make advancement in the field of microelectronics.
“In the Iranian Vice-Presidency for Science, Technology and Knowledge-Based Economy, a structure called ‘national plans’ has been created for interdisciplinary fields. For instance, the approved plan in the field of microelectronics can be mentioned which includes the production chain in the field of microelectronics, including single crystal growth, layer deposition, lithography, circuit design, and microelectronic device design,” said Mostafa Milani, the secretary of the headquarters for the development of materials and advanced manufacturing technologies which operates under the Iranian Vice-Presidency for Science, Technology and Knowledge-Based Economy.
“The construction of equipment related to lithography and layer deposition is the responsibility of the Nano and Micro Headquarters, and the production of the required substrates is also the responsibility of the Materials Headquarters,” he added.
“In the microelectronics plan, one of the most important areas is the area related to materials science, which is managed by the Materials and Advanced Manufacturing Headquarters. In this area, we have put several topics on the agenda, including the growth of single crystals. The most important single crystals in this area are single crystals of silicon. Also, single crystals such as gallium arsenide (GaAs) and indium antimonide (InSb) are considered as the basis for the development of microelectronics. In this regard, one of the issues that should be considered is the creation of infrastructure for the purification of these materials because when working in the field of microelectronics, it is necessary to purify the materials used and materials with very high purity such as 99.9999 are needed,” Milani said.
Iranian Gov’t Supports Activists in Medicinal Plants Field
The Secretary of the Headquarters for the Development of the Knowledge-Based Economy of the Sciences and Technologies of Medicinal Plants and Traditional Medicine underlined the Iranian government’s support for the activists in the fields of medicinal plants and traditional medicine.
Damoun Razmjouyee referred to the development and implementation of various support programs to strengthen the value chain in this field, and said, “The medicinal plants and traditional medicine sector is one of the strategic capacities of the country's knowledge-based economy, which, with targeted planning and support for technological ideas, can play a decisive role in the development of production, employment, and exports.”
“Targeted use of local capacities in the field of medicinal plants and traditional medicine has provided a unique opportunity for the development of the knowledge-based economy in Iran,” he added.
“Development of the value chain, helping to standardize products, supporting innovative projects, facilitating the entry of companies into the market, and improving the level of cooperation between industry and universities are among the executive priorities of the Headquarters this year,” Razmjouyee said.
Iranian Firm Produces Solatrix Device for Skin Therapy
An Iranian knowledge-based company managed to make a ‘Solatrix’ device for beauty and skin treatment purposes.
“The Solatrix device is one of the advanced equipment in the beauty industry and we are the second country to indigenize this device,” said Afshin Motlaq, the sales manager of the knowledge-based company.
“This device uses a very precise motor that has an unparalleled performance in beauty treatments. Applications like removing wrinkles around the eyes (which is not possible with laser), treating various types of scars and hypertrophic scars, skin lightening, removing skin blemishes, and even using it on all areas of the body without restrictions are among the features of this device,” he added.
“The Solatrix device does not require a needle and enjoys the ability to sterilize itself automatically. It uses a fixed handpiece and has currently received a license from the Ministry of Health,” Motlaq said.
He noted that so far, nearly 100 Solatrix devices have been installed in different clinics in Iran.
Iranian Nanotechnology Company Produces Bags, Backpacks with Antibacterial Properties
Technologists at a knowledge-based company managed to produce nano-based bags and backpacks which provide a hygienic and durable solution for carrying items.
A private sector company in Iran has succeeded in producing bags and backpacks that, by using antibacterial fibrous geomembranes containing nanoparticles, can prevent the growth of pathogenic bacteria and unpleasant odors in these widely used products.
The nanoparticles used in the fibers of this product have created effective antibacterial properties. Based on tests conducted in accordance with the Iranian National Standard No. 10900, the antibacterial activity of these bags against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae) bacteria was reported to be 2.15 and 2.17, respectively, both exceeding the minimum acceptable value (2) and indicating high efficiency in inhibiting the growth of pathogens.
These features not only increase the health of users, but also prevent the bags from getting smelly in humid and high-traffic conditions; a common problem specially in travel and mountaineering bags.
Iran-Made Ion Mobility Spectrometer Makes Analysis of Toxins
An Iranian knowledge-based company has succeeded in producing an ion mobility spectrometer with multiple ionization sources which can detect trace amounts of chemicals, toxins, and drugs.
The company has managed to produce an ion mobility spectrometer with multiple ionization sources. This product is used in the oil and gas industry, gas analysis, including H2S, mercaptan, SO2, and sulfur compounds, Total Sulfur, detection and identification of drugs, explosives, and hazardous gases in air, water, and soil, pharmaceuticals, health, and analysis of drugs and toxins in biological environments.
Ion mobility spectroscopy is a successful technology in detecting trace amounts of chemicals. This technology has been indigenized in Iran and new technologies have been added to it. The basis of this technique is similar to a mass spectrometer in one respect, with the difference that it does not require a vacuum and works at atmospheric pressure. From another perspective, this technique is similar to GC gas chromatography, except that here the ions are separated in a column.
In this method, the molecules of the analyte are introduced into the spectrometer tube along with the carrier gas and are charged there by the ionization source. The charged molecules move under the influence of an electric field and hit the collector. The speed of movement of the molecules under the influence of an electric field depends on the ion mobility of the electric field and is an indicator of species identification.
Iranian Firm Develops AI-Based Medical Image Analysis Platform
A knowledge-based company in Iran has succeeded in designing and producing an artificial intelligence-based platform for analyzing medical images that meets the needs of medical centers in the country and has also been exported to several foreign states.
This intelligent platform is capable of accurately analyzing mammography images by utilizing advanced artificial intelligence algorithms, specially in the field of machine learning and deep learning. By identifying hidden lesions or complications in breast tissue, this platform helps radiologists to diagnose breast diseases early and more accurately.
In addition to analyzing images received from medical imaging devices with the help of advanced models, this product also regularly reports the system's findings in a structured environment called the ‘Reporting Module’ so that radiologists can provide more accurate analysis. Also, increasing the accuracy of diagnosis and reducing the error rate, improving the speed of image analysis, reducing the workload of radiologists, etc. are among the key benefits of this software.
This platform is not only used in hospitals within the country, but has also been actively implemented in Uzbekistan and Afghanistan.
Iran-Made Nano Paint Fixes Surface Irregularities, Defects
Iranian engineers used nanotechnology to produce a polyurethane-based metallic paint that, in addition to creating a unique effect, can be applied to a variety of surfaces without the need for special skills.
The special paints are a subcategory of advanced polyurethane-based paints that are produced by using optimized formulations in two models of air-dry and oven-dry. When nanoparticles are used in these paints, fine and uniform cracks are formed after application to the surface, giving the final surface a stone, leathery or textured appearance which is an effect rarely seen in decorative coatings or paints.
In common polyurethane paints, the surface only has a uniform appearance after drying. However, this technological company has created a revolution in the final appearance of this paint by adding special nanoparticles to the base composition. These nanoparticles cause different physical behavior when the paint dries, resulting in fine but regular cracks that are both aesthetically pleasing and help the paint to be better visible in indoor environments.
One of the key advantages of this crack-causing paint is its ease of application, even for non-professionals. This product does not require special skills, complex equipment or previous experience working with decorative paints, and it is enough to use simple tools like a spatula, brush or roller to achieve a professional result. Also, this paint can be applied with a variety of paint sprayers, including air and airless pumps and even multi-color devices. Due to its special formulation and stable structure, this paint also provides easy repair over time. In the event of a line or surface damage, only that spot can be repaired without the need to paint the entire surface.
Another practical feature of this product is its high ability to cover surface defects. The cracks created by the presence of nanoparticles help to visually erase surface irregularities and imperfections to a large extent. This crack-causing paint can also be applied to a variety of surfaces, including wood, metal, MDF, plaster walls, and even paintable plastics. The important point is that there is no need to use a special primer or base coat to apply it to many of these surfaces.
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