An early study in rats provides the first direct indication that a major component of smog might trigger cell death in the heart, researchers report.

For the first time, scientists in Germany have successfully measured in the ozone layer the chlorine compound ClOOCl, which plays an important role in stratospheric ozone depletion. Doubts in the established models of polar ozone chemistry expressed by American researchers based on laboratory measurements are disproved by these new atmospheric observations.

The last of five instruments slated to fly on the upcoming NPOESS Preparatory Project (NPP) climate and weather satellite have been successfully integrated, according to NASA officials. The polar-orbiting satellite is scheduled to launch in late 2011.

Although global grain production must double by 2050 to address rising population and demand, new data suggests crop yields will suffer unless new approaches to adapt crop plants to climate change are adopted. Improved agronomic traits responsible for the remarkable increases in yield accomplished during the past 50 years have reached their ceiling for some of the world's most important crops.

Human-driven changes in the earth's atmospheric composition are likely to alter plant diseases of the future. Researchers are studying the impact of elevated carbon dioxide, elevated ozone and higher atmospheric temperatures on plant diseases that could challenge crops in these changing conditions.

The personal genomics industry has been bruised by the US Congress, but embracing sensible regulation could shift it to the heart of clinical medicine

Genetically modified bacteria that munch on sugar to produce refinable oil could bring down the cost of switching to cleaner liquid fuels

All today's stories on NewScientist.com, including: doubts over shaken baby syndrome, a new take on Alzheimer's and the decline of Phytoplankton

The World Heritage Committee has taken the Galapagos off its Danger List, says Michael Marshall. In other news, mice have nothing to fear from cats

A trick used in 3D-movie theatres could enable totally secure quantum communication with satellites

Environmental Pollutants: Scientists uncover a mechanism for methylmercury's decomposition during the Arctic's long summer days. [DOI: 10.1021/cen072010092911]

Oil Spill: The fate of spilled oil in the Gulf rests with the hydrocarbon-digesting microbes colonizing underwater plumes. [DOI: 10.1021/cen072210151156]

Indoor Air: Scientists measure hydroxyl radicals for the first time in an unperturbed indoor environment. [DOI: 10.1021/cen071910142058]

Technologies to reel in greenhouse gas emissions abound, but can't move forward without policy actions. [DOI: 10.1021/cen072010104115]

Materials Chemistry: Gelation process could turn spilled oil into skimmable fat for easy cleanup. [DOI: 10.1021/cen072210154037]