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Biomedical subjects

C Tickell

Publications and source records attributed to C Tickell.

4 recordsLinked to original sources
PubMed1993

Gaia: goddess or thermostat.

This is a independent look at the concept of Gaia as a tightly coupled system, whose constituents are the biota and the physical environment. Within the system the biota, through normal mechanisms of evolution, unwittingly help regulate the environment within the bounds necessary for their survival. The example of maintaining a broad equilibrium of planetary transpiration is given. Some have given Gaia religious or poetical attributes, others see the concept as an intellectual tool which contributes to understanding of the relationship between animate and inanimate nature.

Animals↗
PubMed1993

Global warming: trends and effects.

As animals we have been a remarkably successful species; but also as animals we are vulnerable to environmental, in particular climate change. Such change is accelerating as a result of human activity, and global warming may already be taking place. Although we can foresee the trends, we cannot yet be specific about the results. Change usually proceeds by steps rather than gradients. But warming would probably include new risks to human health and contribute to an increase in human displacement. Of course climate change is only one among other complex problems facing human society, but it is closely related to them all, including population increase, environmental degradation and loss of biodiversity. We cannot prevent global warming but we can anticipate and mitigate some of its worst effects. Peoples and governments still need persuading of the need for action and of the magnitude of the issue at stake.

Animals↗