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Science News Archive July 2020 - Page 3


Page 3 of 47

In defence mode: this is how Zika virus protects key parts of its genome

Scientists have discovered a simple and ingenious strategy used by the Zika virus to protect important parts of its genome from host cell defence mechanisms. The virus uses an automatic umbrella-like mechanism, where one end of the viral RNA strand is protected while the other is not, allowing it to replicate efficiently.

SourceScuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 30, 2020

Young kids could spread COVID-19 as much as older children and adults

A recent study from Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago found that young children with mild to moderate COVID-19 have higher viral loads than older age groups, suggesting they can transmit the virus just as easily. This finding has significant public health implications for discussions on reopening schools and daycare.

Plastics, pathogens and baby formula: What's in your shellfish?

A recent study found alarming levels of human bacterial pathogens and microdebris materials, including plastics and milk supplement powders, in oysters from the eastern Andaman Sea. The research suggests that coastal urbanization increases contamination in seafood, posing significant health risks to humans and threatening global food s...

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateJul 30, 2020

Lead released in Notre Dame Cathedral fire detected in Parisian honey

Research from UBC's PCIGR analyzed honey samples from Parisian hives collected after the April 2019 Notre Dame Cathedral fire. Lead concentrations were up to four times higher than pre-fire levels, suggesting exposure to lead contamination. The study provides a unique method for tracing environmental pollution using honey.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateJul 29, 2020

Genetically similar fungi cause severe infections in different hospitals

Researchers analyzed 884 fungal samples from 16 hospitals worldwide to identify clusters of genetically identical strains, suggesting the presence of more virulent and drug-resistant varieties. The study highlights the importance of monitoring hospital infection control protocols and finding effective therapies to combat Candidemia.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalFrontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology·DateJul 29, 2020

Healing an Achilles' heel of quantum entanglement

Researchers have developed a new method to calculate the exact entanglement cost of a given quantum state, allowing for more precise measurement and application in various quantum research areas. This breakthrough resolves a longstanding investigation in entanglement theory, enabling efficient computation and broad applicability.

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 29, 2020