Fungus Zone
6
A seemingly ordinary fungus, found in decaying leaves and soil, has been producing rocket fuel in a lab. Aspergillus carbonarius produces hydrocarbons when fed oatmeal, thought to be a form of natural protection against potential bacterial attacks. Once optimised and industrialised, this will end the energy crisis and save the world. Not bad for a side feature.
Sinha, M., Sørensen, A., Ahamed, A., Ahring, B. K., 2015,' Production of hydrocarbons by Aspergillus carbonarius', Fungal Biology, 119 (4): 274. DOI: 10.1016/j.funbio.2015.01.001
New technology brings new life
Warren, Z.
The first human to be born to an exo-womb has been confirmed. This heralds a new era of pregnancy, fertility treatment and over-population statistics.
This happy announcement from SJIS scientists comes shortly after the sad news of the passing of eminent coprologist Dr. James Bell in the last issue. Not only does it bring with it new hope for those seeking their own children, but has boosted the morale for all SJIS employees after the long months of little to no funding.
Exo-wombs were developed by Professor Fertillis while on secondment with SJIS. He said of the birth:
"I just wanted to keep my wife happy. She wanted another child but dreaded being pregnant. She's always enjoyed being active and not ill all the time. Plus, there's no labour so I'll avoid having my hand crushed again."
Possibly a picture of the new baby. I can't be sure
as I got the image from a free stock image service.
Exo-womb technology also has many interesting applications for space travel. It could enable the safe and rapid population of new worlds. All variables are controllable, including time of pregnancy, allowing the health of the baby to be optimised before birth.
SJIS scientists and technicians have set to work improving the exo-womb, while SJIS head office has already completed several patent applications. Royal Society fellowships, here we come!
Common fungus produces rocket fuel
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