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Chemical- technical problems relating to the production, utilization, 



and composition of turpentines, rosins, and other gums and resins, 



I including investigations of the coagulation of rubber latex and of the 



composition of rubber. Examinations of turpentine and rosin are 



I made under the food and drugs act of June 30, 1906. 



Technical-chemical investigations of the destructive distillation 

 of woods, with reference to the utilization of waste woods and the 

 increase of the various products obtained therefrom, and also investi- 

 gations of other chemical uses of woods. 



MICROCHEMICAL LABORATORY. 

 B. J. HOWARD, Chief. 



This laboratory, which was organized July 1, 1904, aims to develop 

 microscopical methods of analysis and apply them to the practical 

 problems presented. Its activities are largely of a collaborative na- 

 ture. This laboratory is charged with the microscopical and micro- 

 chemical study of foods, drugs, cattle foods, paper and textile mate- 

 rials, miscellaneous agricultural products, etc. Special attention is 

 given to the histological study of fruits, spices, cereals, starches, and 

 other agricultural products, both on account of its scientific interest 

 and for the purpose of perfecting methods for detecting the adultera- 

 tion of these products. The laboratory makes microscopical examina- 

 tions of the urine and blood in connection with the work on the 

 I influence of food preservatives on nutrition, performs the photomicro- 

 graphic work of the Bureau, and cooperates with other branches of 

 the Government in work of this character. 



SUGAR LABORATORY. 



[Under direct supervision of the Chief of Bureau.] 

 A. H. BRYAN, Chief. 



The Sugar Laboratory is charged with the chemical study of the 

 (Various sugars and other carbohydrates. Its work consists largely 

 !in the investigation of the domestic sirup industry, namely, the 

 '. manufacture of sirup from maple sap, sorghum, and sugar cane. 



During the present year the maple sirup and sugar industry has 



been especially considered. Chemical analyses have been made of 



I numerous pure samples collected from the maple-producing sections 



'of the United States and Canada. Much attention has been paid 



! to the collection of the sap and its treatment, studying the effect of 



these factors on the appearance and composition of the finished 



' product. 



Having completed a study of American honeys, imported honeys 

 are receiving consideration; also in collaboration with the bee 



It'ir. 14] 





