Russian officials say a purported chemical attack in Syria was a fabrication staged by British intelligence agencies to pave the way for allied strikes.

Alexander Shulgin, who over the course of 40 years of scientific research created some 200 psychedelic compounds, earning the nickname "Godfather of ecstasy", has died at the age of 88.

The controversial scientist credited with the discovery of the drug ecstasy is to speak at Trinity College in Dublin on Friday.