The dangers of nicotine in third-hand smoke, the residue from tobacco smoke that clings to virtually all surfaces, were revealed in a study conducted by Berkeley Lab chemists Hugo Destaillats, Lara Gundel, Mohamad Sleiman and Brett Singer, all with the Environmental Energy Technologies Division. Tests of cellulose surfaces contaminated with nicotine residues from third-hand smoke showed that levels of newly formed TSNAs (potent carcinogens) rose 10 times following a three-hour exposure to nitrous acid, a common indoor air pollutant. More>
People: Wadia Appointed to White House Science Policy Office Berkeley Lab scientist Cyrus Wadia has accepted an invitation from the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) to go to Washington, D.C. and advise the Obama Administration on renewable energy issues, with an emphasis on solar energy. Wadia will take a one-year leave of absence from his duties at the Lab and at the UC Berkeley Haas School of Business to pursue this assignment, starting Feb. 22. More>
DOE Update: Steve Chu Appears on NPR’s ‘Wait, Wait…Don’t Tell Me’Nobel Prize-winning physicist and Energy Secretary Steve Chu is kind of an overachiever, according to the hosts of National Public Radio’s (NPR) show “Wait, Wait…Don’t Tell Me,” so they thought he was the perfect contestant for their quiz show on “losers.” He was given three multiple-choice questions on the Washington Generals, the perennial opponents of the Harlem Globetrotters, who have been beaten hundreds of times. Go here to find out how Chu did on this popular game show.
Safety: Cell Phones As Emergency Lighting When the power went out in several parts of the Lab last December, some employees got stuck in areas without emergency lighting and were left in the dark. Those who find themselves in a similar situation are reminded that a cell phone can be used as emergency lighting by pushing any key to turn on the backlight. The light will remain on for a few seconds — just enough time to locate your keys or find your way to an exit. Smartphone users can also download free flashlight apps that provide even more features.
Cal Dining has hired Sunil Chacko as the new general manager for the Lab’s cafeteria. Chako will be working on many operational enhancements for the facility, including the addition of a fourth registger during the lunch hour. Effective now is an open register in the food service area during breakfast hours.
The Contra Costa Science and Engineering Fair takes place March 25 to 27 at Los Medanos College in Pittsburg. Judges are needed to assist on Friday, March 26, from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Duties include reviewing student posters and interviewing students. Competition categories include engineering, biological, environmental, math, computer and physical sciences. Those interested in participating can send e-mail here.
Today at Berkeley Lab encourages comments, suggestions, and story ideas. Please send them here.
TABL is produced by Public Affairs' Communications Group
