Tamiflu breakthrough
A researcher at the University of Tokyo has found a way to synthesize the active compound in Tamiflu-the only drug that may prove effective against the H5N1 influenza virus. Previously, the stuff could be manufactured only from a plant extract. The process (patent pending), may help governments to grow their stockpiles of Tamiflu faster.
Back to the future
Japan is forging ahead with plans to run its nuclear reactors with MOX, a recycled nuclear fuel. MOX is a mix of plutonium and uranium that is made by recycling spent fuel rods. Japan is building a US$17.2 billion nuclear fuel recycling plant due next year, and plans to run one-third of its 52 nuclear plants on MOX by 2010. Also noteworthy: last month, America announced new funding for reprocessing nuclear waste-the first such since a ban on using such fuel in the 70s.
-Mike Ghenu
Sources: Nature
