Also in the news . . .

In collaboration with Alcatel (Richardson, TX), GBC Materials Corp. (Latrobe, PA) has developed a glass bead to hermetically seal an Alcatel fiberoptic package, increasing device stability. . . . Telecast Fiber Systems Inc. (Worcester, MA) has signed an agreement with Astart Fiber Networks Inc. (Boulder, CO) to market and provide user support for Astart's single-mode fiberoptic photonic switches, trade-named Vortex. . . . Officials at the NASA Marshall Space Flight Center (Huntsville, AL) signed a Space Act Agreement with Dr. Jason H. Collins of the Collins Clinic (Slidell, LA) to design improved obstetrical forceps. Fiberoptic sensors embedded in the composite-material structure will monitor pressure applied during delivery to ensure infant safety.