Nanotechnology Now - Press Release: "Catch up with <i>nano magazine</i> – Issue 20: Nanotechnology – Changing our perception of disability, Issue 19: Nanotechnology for sustainability"

Home > Press > Catch up with nano magazine – Issue 20: Nanotechnology – Changing our perception of disability, Issue 19: Nanotechnology for sustainability

Abstract:
Issue 20 of nano magazine covers a wide range of nanotechnology topics, including disability, printed organic electronics, carbon nanotubes, inkjet printing and electrospun nanofibres for wound dressings.

Catch up with nano magazine – Issue 20: Nanotechnology – Changing our perception of disability, Issue 19: Nanotechnology for sustainability

UK | Posted on November 16th, 2010

Disability

By being classified as disabled by society, does this condemn so-called ‘disabled' people less likely to be able to fully participate in that society? Furthermore, what is the role of nanotechnology, in addressing the needs of the disabled. Is it to ‘right' physical or mental deviations from the human ‘norm' (in whatever way that ‘norm' is defined), or to enable the disabled in other ways to participate fully in society? Laura Cabrera of Charles Sturt University tackles this issue head on, by discussing what defines disability today, and explores the role nanotechnology may have in overcoming what is termed the ‘disability paradigm'. She argues that what nanotechnology offers is not about turning disabled people into superhumans, but about providing them with the means to become fully integrated citizens of the planet.

Nanomedicine

On the subject of nanomedicine, Professor El-Kenawy, working in the University of Tanda in Egypt, describes how we might better treat wounds and burns using nanofibres produced by electrospinning.

Carbon nanotubes

Other nanomaterials used for drug delivery include carbon nanotubes, but that is not their only application, by a long shot! Jana Perlet of Nanoposts.com, the well-respected nano market research organisation, reviews the properties of carbon nanotubes and their myriad potential applications.

Germany and Professor Markus Antonietti

On the theme of accelerating the industrial applications of nanoparticles, Germany is the subject of our country focus. There is no doubt that nanotechnology is viewed as an important facet in maintaining the competitiveness of German industry, and presently Germany is the largest provider of public funds for nanotechnology research in Europe.

The success of the German industrial engine depends on the innovations emerging from its many research Institutions. One of these ‘innovation suppliers' which has grown remarkably in status since its founding in 1992 is the Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces. Much of the success of this particular Max Planck is also due to its founders. Professor Markus Antonietti, one of Germany's leading materials scientists, has been involved since the beginning and is now Director with overall responsibility. Read about his secrets for success, and of the early days of the Max Planck, and why Professor Antonietti sees his research future in better ways of energy generation.

Still on the topic of nanotechnology success in Germany, the development of a Cluster of Excellence (EAM) based on the University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, focussing on the Engineering of Advanced Materials exemplifies the level of commitment to and investment in high-performance materials for application in everything from electronic and optical devices to catalytic and lightweight materials.

Printed Organic Electronics is predicted to be the next big wave for the electronics industry. Read about one company, ISORG, spun out of CEA Nanomaterials Technologies at Grenoble, specially created to capitalise on this new technological field.

Also discussed in this issue of nano Magazine: advances in Inkjet Printing and the 'big brother' nature of nanomedicine.

View more information about the issue here
www.nanomagazine.co.uk/index.php?option=com_content&view=category&layout=blog&id=129&Itemid=168

Issue 19 Nanotechnology released - for sustainability across the board: architecture, biomimetics, ethics and medicine.

In issue 19 of NANO magazine, we look at many applications of nanotechnology to our everyday lives, and its promise for the future. This issue takes a look at how nanotechnology is being addressed in architecture, interior design, biomimetics, education, health and education.

Architecture, Construction and Interior Design

Nanotechnology in architecture is addressed compelling by Sylvia Leydecker in this issue. She states that innovation-driven materials and products are critical in achieving green construction, which is now at the forefront of much architectural debate.

Following on from a plea that architects become more acquainted with nanotechnology, the Decker Yeadon agency in New York has come up with new concepts based on nanotechnology that could shape the future of homes and offices.

Biomimetics

The emphasis on nanoscience and nanotechnology since the early 1990s has provided a significant impetus in mimicking nature, using nanofabrication techniques for commercial applications. Bharat Bhusan takes us on a tour of the natural world and some of its attributes that are leading to new products using biomimetics.

George Whitesides

The subject of this month's interview is Harvard Professor George Whitesides. Professor Whitesides is not only successful as an academic, but is also named on over 50 patents. A lifetime of knowledge and experience has led him to a profound understanding of what society needs from science. His view is that, where science thrives on complexity, and unexpected outcomes, society needs simplicity allied to function.

Education and Ethics

One way to improve understanding of nanotechnology is by engaging young people in dialogue about its ethical, legal and social aspects is needed. NANOYOU (Nano for Youth) is a project funded by the European Commission's Seventh Framework Programme that aims to achieve this through an appealing variety of media, games, role playing and other interactions.
The ethical debate on nanotechnology is an exciting one, which poses many complex questions -such as how we perceive nature, as opposed to artefact; the possible redefinition of the norms of health and disease; the likelihood of Transhumanism; the fair distribution of the benefits of nanotechnology; and scientists' responsibility for the consequences of technological innovations.

Nanomedicine and the ageing population

Ottilia Saxl explores the broader issues of how nanotechnology can provide important benefits to an ageing population, in terms of prolonging independence and quality of life for as long as possible, while reducing costs.

The country profile this month is Brazil. Brazil may have been a little later in getting to grips with the potential of nanotechnology, but investment and strong policies linking science and industry are reaping the benefits. José d'Albuquerque e Castro gives an all-round perspective on the state of the technology and where it is headed.

View more information about the issue here
www.nanomagazine.co.uk/index.php?option=com_content&view=category&layout=blog&id=120&Itemid=157

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About NANO Magazine
NANO Magazine is a dynamic magazine at the leading edge of nanotechnology features, views, news and reviews. NANO will appeal to a spectrum of interests ranging from the industrial and academic research communities to investors and businesses.

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- the latest news and events in nanotechnology

- a special focus on themes of international significance, from cancer prevention and treatment to surviving in space

- contributions from key figures in industry, leading researchers, decision makers and opinion leaders

- in-depth features

- regular articles on nanotechnologies for industry, healthcare and the environment

- profiles of countries investing in nanotechnology ethics, international risk governance and regulation

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