Book review: Good Energy
A growing body of evidence now supports the contention that much of the ill-health and the diseases that give rise to premature death are avoidable. The root cause of such maladies is currently thought to be progressive deterioration of the metabolism, a condition designated medically as metabolic syndrome.
Book review: The Underworld
Whereas space appears visible and (wrongly) unthreatening, the deep sea is seen as both hidden and hostile, either lifeless or populated by sea monsters.
AI plan to improve drug production
Pharmaceutical manufacturing in the US is the subject of another government-led programme aimed at ‘revolutionising’ domestic production. A new public-private partnership will link up with several US universities and companies to improve the manufacturing of essential drugs using technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning and informatics.
The global hunt for lithium heats up
Demand for lithium is predicted to surge over the next two decades, especially as transport electrifies. Currently, however, most of this lithium is sourced from China – sparking a global search for new supplies Anthony King reports.
Hydrogen's future energy impact: Where does it go next?
Hydrogen is often touted as a key component of the transition to a low-carbon economy. But the size and impact of its contribution is proving difficult to predict. Maria Burke reports
Worm slime inspires new recyclable bioplastics
Slime ejected by a particular family of worms could inspire the next generation of recyclable bioplastics, according to Australian researchers.
Changing times and unexpected reactions in chemicals and pharma
The ongoing upheavals to international trade and the many executive orders issuing from the White House continue to create headaches for those in industry trying to do forward planning.
US to ban eight synthetic food dyes
The US is to phase out some petroleum-based food dyes. In April 2025, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that it would revoke authorisation for two synthetic food colourings over the coming months and work with industry to eliminate six others.
This synthetic lichen helps concrete heal its own cracks
US researchers have developed synthetic lichen that should allow concrete to heal cracks itself. The system is self-sustaining, which sets it apart from previous self-healing concrete studies using microbes, they say.