Cell-centred life
Our genetic make-up is widely assumed to be the sole operating manual for everything that happens to us from the moment of conception to our eventual demise. This book questions the wisdom of this notion.
Flawed civilisation
This third book by Lewis Dartnell, a professor engaged in astrobiology research at the University of Westminster, London, highlights the role of our human constitution in determining the distinctive features of the contemporary world, with a special focus on the decisive part played by the characteristic weaknesses and strengths of the human protagonists.
A non-opioid pain reliever
A small molecule that binds to a receptor on the surface of cells has shown promise as a non-opioid pain reliever. This could help patients with neuropathic pain, a chronic condition that is poorly treated with today’s medications.
Companion crops deter flea beetles, study finds
Planting companion crops helps to deter cabbage stem flea beetles (CSFB) in oilseed rape, a new study from Rothamsted Research shows. Sowing mustard, cereals, or clover, as well as mulching with straw, reduced damage from adult beetles and their larvae, field trials in the UK and Germany showed (Pest Management Science, doi: 10.1002/ps.7641).
Natural pest fighters: sustainable solutions for food
A new range of natural pest deterrents is in development – including an insecticide to protect honeybees based on venom from the Australian funnel web spider, one of the world’s most poisonous spiders, Jasmin Fox-Skelly reports
Artificial photosynthesis
Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University in Japan have developed an artificial photosynthesis technique to boost fumaric acid production – a building block for biodegradable plastics – using carbon dioxide as a feedstock.
Applied chemistry
Read the latest applied chemistry highlights for March 2024 by Nigel P Freestone | University of Northampton, UK.
Living near a park could make your bones stronger
Data held in the UK Biobank have provided a surprising link between osteoporosis and where you live, researchers have discovered. Living near gardens, parks, and green spaces may boost bone density and lower the risk of osteoporosis, according to research published online in the Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases.
The human element
In the ever-changing landscape of human resources, 2024 presents a new array of challenges and opportunities. From the spread of new technologies to bold new attitudes towards upskilling and work-life balance, the key aspect of 2024 trends will be how they affect the ‘human element’ of the company. This attitude will be shaped by three pivotal trends.
Cutting methane emissions: from cows to catalysts
Cutting CO2 emissions is a central plank of policies bent on curbing global warming. But with 86 times the global warming potential, methane gas is also easier and cheaper to remove, Lou Reade reports