In the Economist by the Economist (The World in a Test Tube), 4, September, 2008. The authors investigate problems associated with the technology of climate change. The once promising development of Hydrogen cell vehicles are highlighted through an in-depth look at three significant problems: 1) the lack of hydrogen filling stations, 2) the cost of constructing hydrogen vehicles and 3) the amount of carbon dioxide produced from creating hydrogen.  The impact and limitations of geo-engineering on combating global warming were discussed such as limiting research as it may cause more problems and thus give politicians a reason for ignoring the issue all together. Abstract by Steven Kamack

In The Economist by the Economist (The Price of being Well), 28, August, 2008. The Economist investigates the completeness of a world health report commissioned by the World Health Organization. The report concludes that income is not the only contributing factor to health. Other things such as social, political and economic factors that have little direct influence on health play a significant role in determining if children live to their full lifespan. The authors provide several suggestions for improving the health of people in poor countries such as improving the quality of everyday life for women and children, investing in childcare and education and providing better working conditions. Abstract by Karen Flower

In the Economist by the Economist (When sorrow come), 28, August, 2008. The Economist writers investigate the next wave in the credit crisis, the collapse of banks. Nine banks have folded this year compared with three over the part three years combined. The FDIC is on the verge of having to replenish its fund through increased premiums and by going directly to the U.S. Treasury. Some economists are placing the bailout figure above 140 billion. To complicate matters banks are having difficulties raising money through traditional means and have turned to less common means such as selling stock. Abstract by Ted Tiller

On the Economist.com by the Economist (Every move you make) 20, August, 2008. “Got rhythm?” If so, MIT researchers believe you will be more productive than your less rhythmic colleagues. The researches created a high-tech identity badge that captures the wearer’s movements and oral communications detecting such things as voice inflection, and location. The data can than be combined with productivity data to help determine work habits and social networks. The researchers also concluded that other individuals’ productivity increased when they knew the study was being performed. The importance of fairness and disclosure were viewed as important components for full implementation. Abstract by Kerry Ward

In the Economist by the Economist (Importing Competition) 14, August, 2008. The article details the new found phenomenon of Americans shopping overseas for medical treatment; under 1 million last year to 10 million by 2012. Several reasons are given for the rise of America’s ‘medical refuges’ including costs, a lower degree of safety and quality in America when compared to medical facilities in Asia and Latin America. The financial consequences of this exodus could cost American hospitals $160 billion of annual business. The article concludes that Americans going abroad could have positive impacts on developing countries as more individuals seek medical training and additional revenue is spent on the poor. Abstract by Melvin Si