Nuclear-powered future
This book, Chain Reactions: The hopeful history of uranium, appears to be about the chemistry and physics of element number 92 in the Periodic Table. However, it also covers an eclectic mix of topics, some with only a tenuous link to element 92. Uranium is frequently a springboard, for example, for dives into the turbulent waters of nuclear power politics; in particular, the role that nuclear energy could and should play in the long-term future of our world.
AI for the perplexed
With all the AI hype on one side and the concern on the other, Richard Susskind’s guide provides a welcome voice of calm. Based on decades of experience, the author offers deeply thought analyses of the risks and benefits of AI.
Vitamin K analogues boost neuron formation
Researchers in Japan have chemically modified Vitamin K to boost its neuron formation capabilities. This could act to replenish neurons lost in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease. The study synthesised 12 variants of Vitamin K compounds with side chain modifications
Strong, biodegradable plastics made from bamboo
A new method to produce strong, biodegradable plastic from bamboo has been proposed by Chinese researchers. They say the bioplastic compares well with oil-based plastics in strength, processability, and thermal stability and can biodegrade in soil within 50 days.
Seaweed's remarkable future: New materials and new science
Macroalgae – or seaweed – farming has taken off in recent years, spurring innovation. With 12,000 species spread around the world’s oceans, there’s a lot of untapped biomass ripe for harvesting. Katrina Megget reports
Making cellulose membranes from wastepaper
Researchers have looked at the possibility of using cellulose membranes fabricated from wastepaper to remove Fe(II) ions from mine wastewater.
Applied chemistry highlights: New catalyts and materials
Nigel P. Freestone from the University of Northampton summarises some of his selected research papers from recent journal issues for Issue 11 of C&I magazine.
CAR-T: The search for a universal approach
The success of the cutting-edge CAR-T cancer treatment that involves transforming a patient’s immune cells so they can identify and destroy cancer cells has led to a broad range of developments and improvements. Future modifications promise hope for a wider range of cancers and other diseases.
Bridging the life sciences skills gap with tech
A UK Government medicines manufacturing workforce scheme aiming to bridge a significant skills gap in the life sciences sector, has delivered ‘overwhelmingly positive’ first results.
Using AI to design novel fungicides
Researchers have combined generative artificial intelligence (AI) and antibiotics data to help them seek out potential new forms of pesticides.