But some good things were happening beneath the surface, including the creation of FedEx, Genentech, Microsoft, Apple, Oracle and SAS Institute and the inventions of the microprocessor, spreadsheets and Silicon Valley-style venture capital.

FORBES: Time For A Change

Surface lets customers transition between entertainment and creation.

ENGADGET: Surface RT coming to six more countries in late March, Pro in the 'coming months'

Nano-composite plastics are going to be a major component of nano-enhanced food packaging, and Nanocor has more than 40 issued patents in its intellectual property portfolio, primarily regarding the creation of nanoclays and nanomer surface treatments.

FORBES: Safer And Guilt-Free Nano Foods

Like Earth, Titan's atmosphere is composed primarily of nitrogen, but the liquids and vapors on the moon's surface are made of methane and other organic chemicals integral to the creation of complex life.

ENGADGET

An initiative to assess erosion and sediment transport to marine, lake or reservoir environments aimed at the creation of a holistic approach for the remediation and conservation of surface waters, closely linking science with policy and management needs.

UNESCO: International Hydrological Programme (IHP)