Earth
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We summarize the week's scientific breakthroughs every Thursday.
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EarthDeath downwind
Pollutants generated by human activity in Europe significantly boost ozone concentrations downwind, harming people’s health and causing thousands of premature deaths in North Africa, the Near East and the Middle East.
By Sid Perkins -
ClimateAlready feeling the heat
Long-delayed U.S. government summary of climate change science sees effects on energy, transportation, farming, and water.
By Susan Milius -
AgricultureVertical Agriculture
Instead of farming in the country, one Columbia University scientist would do it in the city, spanning floor upon floor of buildings--from basements to the tops of high rise structures.
By Janet Raloff -
EarthPolitical Science
New York's mayor argues that science should not only inform action, but also prod it.
By Janet Raloff -
EarthLife down deep
Deep-sea sediments provide a habitat for diverse and abundant populations of microorganisms and may be home to as much as 70 percent of the bacteria on the planet, new studies suggest.
By Sid Perkins -
Health & MedicineLead’s legacy
High levels of lead in the blood during childhood are associated with smaller brains and with an increased risk for violent criminal behavior, report two new studies.
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EcosystemsThat sinking feeling
The sea level rise expected in the coming century will swamp the Everglades unless current management is adjusted or climate change is curbed.
By Sid Perkins -
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Health & MedicineInsects (the original white meat)
Dining on insects, usually more by choice than necessity, occurs in at least 100 countries — and may be better than chicken for both people and the environment.
By Janet Raloff -
AnimalsPandamonium over a Tiny Pest
A parasite threatens efforts to protect China's endangered icon.
By Janet Raloff -
ClimateOcean reflux
Upwelling off Californian coast offers taste of predicted ocean acidification.
By Susan Milius -
EarthAsbestos-like nanotubes
Some carbon nanotubes show signs of asbestos-like toxicity.
By Janet Raloff