– Scientists who created a more deadly strain of bird flu as part of attempts to prevent the virus’s spread, halt work amid fears it could be used by terrorists.

– Scientists discover indications of a relationship between La Nina climatic conditions and influenza pandemics.

– Reducing emissions of black carbon and methane could slow climate change, increase crop yields and prevent hundreds of thousands of premature deaths each year.

– Moonlight and starlight aren’t just romantic, according to a new international study.

– Females influence the gender of their offspring so they inherit either their mother’s or grandfather’s qualities.

– A bureau in charge of monitoring China’s frequently smog-choked capital will release more detailed reports.

– Humans pump thousands of tons of vapor from the metallic element mercury into the atmosphere each year.

– A lethal salmon virus from Europe discovered in Canada likely spread to wild fish from mega fish farms.

– New Zealand and Australia have agreed to collaborate on marine observations, research and data management for the first time, although they are friendly neighbors.