Cloud simulation is one of the most challenging tasks in regional to global-scale modelling. In many cases, the physical mechanisms responsible for observed cloud dynamics are unknown, making it difficult to realistically simulate their structure and behaviour.
From bust to boom to bust again: artemisinin, the key ingredient of front-line antimalarial drugs, is entering the third chapter of its turbulent history. A decade ago, the compound available only from the sweet wormwood plant Artemisia annua
Vernon Asper was one of the first researchers in the Gulf of Mexico to
study the oil gushing out from the BP well. But it has not all been
smooth sailing, reports Mark Schrope.
Although China is a world leader in renewable-energy technology, it is
missing the chance to deploy this equipment on a suitably grand scale
at home. (Editorial)
As China surges ahead with renewable energy, all forward motion seems to have stalled in the US Senate. Two weeks ago, with the November elections in mind and the Republican minority in no mood to compromise, the Senate's Democratic leaders admitted that they would not have the votes this year to pass any kind of cap-and-trade system to curb carbon emissions. (Editorial)
Phytoplankton biomass is a crucial measure of the health of ocean ecosystems. An impressive synthesis of the relevant data, stretching back to more than 100 years ago, provides a connection with climate change.
The heartland of the United States lies within a tectonic plate, certain regions of which have experienced large and geologically recent earthquakes. Explanations for those events are still being sought.
Unjustified and impractical legal requirements are stopping genetically engineered crops from saving millions from starvation and malnutrition, says Ingo Potrykus.
To feed the world without further damaging the planet, Jeffrey Sachs and 24 food-system experts call for a global data collection and dissemination network to track the myriad impacts of different farming practices.
With its plentiful sun, water and land, Brazil is quickly surpassing other countries in food production and exports. But can it continue to make agricultural gains without destroying the Amazon? Jeff Tollefson reports from Brazil.
