Global Search for New Physics with 2.0/fb at CDF

Data collected in Run II of the Fermilab Tevatron are searched for indications of new electroweak-scale physics. Rather than focusing on particular new physics scenarios, CDF data are analyzed for discrepancies with the standard model prediction. A model-independent approach (Vista) considers gross features of the data, and is sensitive to new large cross-section physics. Further sensitivity to new physics is provided by two additional algorithms: a Bump Hunter searches invariant mass distributions for "bumps" that could indicate resonant production of new particles; and the Sleuth procedure scans for data excesses at large summed transverse momentum. This combined global search for new physics in 2.0/fb of ppbar collisions at sqrt(s)=1.96 TeV reveals no indication of physics beyond the standard model.Comment: 8 pages, 7 figures. Final version which appeared in Physical Review D Rapid Communication

Climate Change and Human Rights

Wolfgang Sachs asks who are the winners, and who the losers in climate change? He makes the case that cuts in fossil fuel use are imperative not only to protect the atmosphere but also to protect human rights. Development (2008) 51, 332–337. doi:10.1057/dev.2008.35

Adaptation as ‘Climate-Smart’ Development

Shiv Someshwar argues that adaptation efforts have taken climate scenarios of the future, over vast spatial scales, as the key framing device, leading primarily to general statements about the need to manage long-term impacts. National policymakers, who are under tremendous pressure to deliver actual development in the face of climate risks, are not well served by this approach. The author proposes five principles to help frame adaptation efforts. They involve managing current climate risks, and for the longer term, a ‘climate-smart’ approach, providing primacy to finding solutions to place-based development risks from climate. Such an approach, which utilizes learning from managing current climate risks for the management of longer term climate risks to development, would be better placed for traction with real-world development programmes, and would provide much needed succour to the lives of the poor and marginal communities who will bear the brunt of impacts from a changing climate. Development (2008) 51, 366–374. doi:10.1057/dev.2008.31