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I would like to open my editorial with the question – Is chemistry still the central science? It is a common belief among scientists that chemistry is the central science as it helps to bridge the worlds of natural and physical sciences. Chemistry deals with atoms and their interactions, making and breaking of bonds. It is the “science that deals with the properties, composition, and structure of substances (elements and compounds) and the reactions and transformations they undergo, and the energy released or absorbed during those processes. Often called the “central science,” chemistry is concerned with atoms as building blocks (rather than with the subatomic domain) with everything in the material world, and with all living things” [1]. On the other hand, new discoveries about the universe made by cosmology – the study of the properties of the universe as a whole show that about 4.6% of the universe is made of atoms, while 24% is dark matter and 71.4% dark energy [2]. Whether it is possible to gain a thorough understanding of the non-atomic portion of the universe through chemistry is a critical question. While we search for possible answers to this question, let us not forget the fact that chemistry still remains one of most fascinating areas of inquiry as evidenced by the lineup of articles in this issue of The Chemist. Siji Mathew and Karickal Haridas report the fabrication of dye-sensitized solar cells using 1,3,5-triphenylamine derivatives. These materials are environment-friendly and suitable candidates as hole transporting materials (HTM) for solar cells and solar cell devices. Frank Gate describes the use of Energy Dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) in materials testing, especially useful for detecting basic corrosions in materials. The George Brewer article reprinted from The Chemist discusses electrodeposition of water-dispersed organic coatings used in corrosion protection, anything from toys to automobiles and steel trusses. John Hill and co-authors propose a curriculum framework for a tertiary basic chemistry course design based on Atkins’ interrelated core chemical concepts aimed at triggering student interest in pursuing chemistry. Susan Day, under the title, “Very Little About Chemistry!” discusses how her appreciation for chemistry has grown in recent years since chemistry has become more important to her “livelihood,” though her terminal degree is in public administration. While Kenneth Abate offers a review of the book Nanophysics and Nanotechnology, Margot Hall reviews the books Brain: The Complete Mind and Casarett & Doull’s Essentials of Toxicology (2nd edition). In this issue two long time fellows of The American Institute of Chemists are portrayed, and they are Dr. David W. Riley and Dr. E. G. Meyer. The biography of Dr. Riley and the autobiography (“A wonderful ride”) of Dr. Meyer are very impressive portraying a well-balanced life. Without any doubt Dr. Riley and Dr. Meyer are excellent role models, and I wish them the best. I would like to thank the reviewers on the journal’s Editorial Review Board who contributed their valuable time and effort providing thoughtful reviews of manuscripts. Also, I would like to thank Dr. Penelope Fritzer at Florida Atlantic University and Mr. Wade Berstler at Florida Atlantic University for providing thoughtful feedback on book reviews, and Ms Enery Burgos at Florida Atlantic University for providing editorial assistance. Florida Atlantic University continues to provide a home away from home for The Chemist, with the support of Dean Valerie Bristor. Let us not take for granted the support of each and everyone involved in offering various degrees of support for the production of The Chemist because not everyone is a member of The American Institute of Chemists. Collectively their action speaks louder than words that chemistry has an important role to play in contributing to our understanding of the world around and what the journal The Chemist does in this perspective is worth supporting no matter whether chemistry is still the central science or not. Thank you.
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