However, he warned against focussing disproportionately on the eight areas of excellence outlined by the Chancellor in November ("big data" computing, synthetic biology, regenerative medicine, agricultural science, energy storage, space, robotics and advanced materials including nanotechnology).

BBC: Autumn Statement: Science gets ?600m injection

While reviews and results of synthetic surfaces have been mixed, recent data funded by the Jockey Club suggest that they do in fact reduce fatal breakdowns.

FORBES: Making Racing Safer For Horses, Starting With The Surface

According to new data from SAMHSA, more young people went to the ER after experiencing the negative effects of synthetic marijuana in 2010 than in previous years, despite the growing awareness that the fake stuff can be more damaging to the brain than the real thing.

FORBES: New Marijuana Laws Take Effect In Washington State, Synthetic Pot Sends More Kids To The ER