Biology reprogrammed
Until the mid-1970s, chemists and biologists studying complex biological systems were largely preoccupied with deconstructing the systems into their component parts, in futile attempts to discover how the parts interacted to make the whole system work. The major change came when biological research shifted its focus toward accessing individual cells for the purpose of manipulating their DNA and modifying the functioning of genes.
Healing with light
Dennis Rouvray reviews the book "Nanomaterials for photodynamic therapy" by P. Kesharwani about the vital role played by the sun in promoting health. Read the review.
UK startup extracting lithium from battery waste
The price of lithium carbonate quadrupled from early 2021 to the end of 2022, raising interest in lithium mining and recycling. Now, UK startup Watercycle is putting its membrane filtration technology into action to extract lithium from waste streams and brines.
Electrifying solutions
Grid and pricing volatility is a major challenge for the energy intensive chemicals industry. But the sector can reduce reliance on external factors by implementing on-site energy solutions. Read the comment by David Kipling, CEO On-Site Energy
Recycling inks and plastics
In its Global Commitment Progress Report for 2022, the Ellen MacArthur Foundation states that the target to completely implement reusable, recyclable, or compostable packaging by 2025 will ‘likely not be met’ by most business signatories, with the use of flexible plastic packaging highlighted as a major contributing factor.
Nanoparticle sponge traps aquatic metals
A reusable sponge thinly coated in nanoparticles can trap heavy metals in water, scientists report. As a demonstration, the lab of Vinayak Dravid at Northwestern University, US, successfully filtered lead-contaminated water at concentrations around 1ppm, achieving levels below detection.
Antidote for the death cap
Researchers have found an antidote to the toxin produced by the world’s deadliest mushroom. They identified a diagnostic agent, already approved by the US FDA, which targets a key protein in the toxin.
Carbon neutral confusion
‘Carbon neutral’, ‘CO2 neutral’, ‘carbon positive’, ‘carbon neutral certified’. These days it’s difficult to miss these powerful claims on products and services when we’re shopping. The supermarket shelves are no exception and no wonder; these claims paint a very positive picture in the eyes of consumers. What lies beneath them, however, is little more than greenwashing; confusing rather than clarifying for shoppers the environmental impact of their purchases.
Pharma jobs crisis
Recent research by the Association of Professional Staffing Companies (APSCo) suggests that the number of professionals applying for jobs in the pharmaceutical sector fell considerably in 2022, a concerning sign for a sector that has historically faced acute skills shortages.