Posted on 20. December, 2012.

The study of soil is a mature science, whereas related practical methods of regenerative agriculture and permaculture are not. In the latest issue of Science Progress, Chris Rhodes elucidates the scientific basis of these remarkable phenomena, and shows how we may solve some of the otherwise insurmountable problems confronting humanity, simply by observing, and working with, the patterns and forces of nature.

Posted on 20. December, 2012.

Information on chlorine reaction with pharmaceutical compounds is scarce. An investigation reported in Progress in Reaction Kinetics and Mechanism quantifies the kinetics for reactions of levofloxacin with free available chlorine and also identifies associated transformation, mechanisms, degradation products, and evaluates thermodynamic activation parameters relevant to chlorine based municipal waste water and drinking water disinfection processes.

Posted on 20. December, 2012.

Fuscain is a new furanolactam isolated from the sponge Phacellis fusca from the South China Sea. Furan analogues isolated from marine organisms have valuable medicinal properties. The first total synthesis of fuscain is reported in Journal of Chemical Research December issue. The key step in the synthesis is the formation of seven-membered lactam by acylation of a furan ring using the mild Lewis acid CuSO₄•5H₂O.

Posted on 20. December, 2012.

The potential danger raised by metal accumulation in aquatic environments and in aquatic organisms not only poses threat to our environments but also to food safety. Taihu Lake is an important water source in central-eastern part of China where metal pollution is a major concern. In a study reported in Chemical Speciation and Bioavailability, it was found that compared with the background values of local soils, the concentration of Zn, Cd, Cu, Pb and Sb was higher in bottom sediments, promoting ecological safety concerns.

Posted on 20. December, 2012.

Nests, often seen just as receptacles for eggs and chicks, are also “signals” of other aspects of reproductive biology. Nest quality may act as key sexual signal in mate choice or play a role in communal nesting. Other behavioural aspects of nest construction as well as the impact of environmental factors are considered in Avian Biology Research Volume 5 number 4.

Posted on 3. December, 2012.

Materials at High Temperatures publishes peer reviewed contributions relating to high temperature applications in the power, chemical, engine, processing and furnace industries.

Posted on 30. November, 2012.

The Journal of Chemical Research is a monthly journal which has a broad international authorship and publishes research papers and reviews in all branches of experimental chemistry. Established in 1977 as a joint venture by the British, French and German chemical societies it maintains the high standards set by the founding societies.