Six entries featuring notable explanatory and investigative reporting on the global COVID-19 pandemic won the 2020 AAAS Kavli Science Journalism Awards. Winners included Ed Yong, Kaiser Health News and The Associated Press for an investigation into state and local health programs.
Researchers estimate 4.3% of Kenyans had antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 by June 2020, revealing more extensive exposure than reported case-based surveillance indicates. The findings support the idea that disease may be attenuated in Africa due to Kenya's demographic characteristics.
A Dutch study found that SARS-CoV-2 transmission occurs between humans and minks, as well as within mink populations. The virus was initially introduced by humans, evolving over time.
A new study suggests that implementing social distancing measures in the US two weeks sooner could have prevented over a million cases and saved over 59,000 lives. The study's results highlight the importance of quick and aggressive non-pharmaceutical interventions to counter COVID-19 transmission.
Research found preexisting antibody-driven immunity against SARS-CoV-2 in a small proportion of uninfected adults and children, suggesting cross-reactive protection. These antibodies targeted the viral spike protein complex and showed neutralizing activity in cell culture experiments.
Researchers identified nanobodies that bind tightly to the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, providing a unique prophylactic and therapeutic strategy. These therapeutics have the potential to be produced in bulk from microbes and delivered via aerosol, offering an affordable alternative to monoclonal antibodies.
A new ecological dataset, AAMA, combines decades-long animal tracking studies across the Arctic to understand rapid climate changes. The open-source archive identifies early signs of local or Arctic-wide changes in animal behavior and biology due to ongoing climate change.
Researchers designed a protein decoy that replicates the spike protein target interface in hACE2, allowing it to neutralize SARS-CoV-2 infection in human cells. The decoy protected Syrian hamsters from lethal doses of the virus with modest weight loss.
Researchers re-examined ancient fossils found in Myanmar's amber deposits, revealing that a species initially thought to be an ancient form of chameleon was actually part of the albanerpetontid lineage. The new findings indicate that these ancient amphibians were climbers with specialized tongues for catching food.
The Trump administration's recent ESA changes have sparked controversy due to their potential impact on economic activity. To address the issue, researchers propose improving consensus and transparency in the ESA language to reduce inconsistencies and promote conservation legitimacy.
The global food system accounts for nearly a third of total greenhouse gas emissions, with land clearing and deforestation, fertilizer use, and fossil fuel combustion major contributors. Reducing food system-related emissions is crucial to meeting the 1.5°C warming target
Newly sequenced ancient dog genomes show a long shared history with humans, with dogs diverging from wolves around 11,000 years ago. The study reveals multiple dog lineages worldwide by this time, and genetic links to human migration patterns.
A new tissue screening assay for human cerebral organoids identified 25 additional candidate genes for microcephaly, nearly doubling the number of currently known genes linked to the rare neurological condition. The CRISPR-LICHT technology revealed these genes associated with both known and previously unknown microcephaly-driving pathw...
Researchers have uncovered evidence of long-term Denisovan occupation of high-altitude caves in Tibet and Mongolia, dating back up to 45,000 years. The findings suggest that Denisovan admixture contributed to the high-altitude adaptations of modern humans colonizing the Tibetan Plateau.
Researchers found a single small gene region influences Chinook salmon migratory timing, contradicting previous assumptions of complex genetics. This discovery may facilitate conservation efforts by clarifying the genetic basis of ecotypes.
Researchers found stable antibody titers in mild-to-moderate COVID-19 patients for at least five months. The study suggests that these long-lasting antibodies may protect against reinfection and attenuate disease severity.
Scientists have discovered that baking soda can reprogram T cells to resist cancer cells' immune-suppressive effects. The treatment has reversed the suppressive effects on T cells in 10 transplant recipients with relapsed AML.
A new study found that burning biomass fuels like wood and crop residues contributes to 32% of premature deaths due to inhaling fine particle pollutants in China. Residential energy use, especially indoor emissions, pose significant health risks, with indoor PM2.5 concentrations being 3 times higher than outdoor air concentrations.
A new study by Ashish Goyal and colleagues proposes that treating with potent antiviral therapy before peak viral load can effectively suppress viral AUC, reducing the duration of viral shedding. The model also suggests that timing is crucial in determining the effectiveness of different therapies against COVID-19.
Residents of US counties with strong social ties to China or Italy were more likely to follow early pandemic restrictions. This finding highlights the importance of information environment in boosting the effectiveness of non-pharmaceutical interventions.
Researchers studied male chimps over two decades and found that aging males value more positive friendships than younger males. They also socialized more with important partners, despite being more likely to be alone.
A continuous colonic mucus system forms a protective barrier between gut microbiota and host tissue in mice. The barrier consists of two types of O-glycan rich mucus that form in different regions of the colon, with proximal mucus encapsulating fecal pellets and distal mucus strengthening the barrier during elimination.
A new method transforms waste polyethylene into long-chain alkylaromatic compounds without high temperatures or pressures. The process could pave the way for a circular plastics economy and make non-fossil-based plastics more economically attractive.
The authors argue that the rapidly developing research on SARS-CoV-2 transmission provides a solid foundation for interpreting new information. The established knowledge of viral spread across various contexts and spatial scales, including household, residential, and community settings, remains well-established.
Researchers consider indirect protection strategies due to potential ineffectiveness in elderly and comorbid individuals. Indirect effects are harder to measure than direct effects, highlighting the need for evidence on vaccine impact before approval or soon after.
Research suggests that impaired tryptophan metabolism may contribute to celiac disease inflammation. A high-tryptophan diet and specific bacteria or drugs can alleviate symptoms in mice with the disease.
A new study has found that establishing a positive clinical rapport between doctors and patients can relieve pain during acupuncture treatment. Patients who mirrored their doctor's facial expressions experienced less pain, while stronger brain alignment was associated with improved treatment outcomes.
Researchers discovered that SARS-CoV-2's spike protein recognizes and binds to neuropilin-1, facilitating cell entry. Inhibiting this interaction reduces viral infectivity. Autopsies revealed infected olfactory epithelial cells express high levels of neuropilin-1, suggesting its role in COVID-19
Researchers have discovered a massive globular cluster in the Andromeda Galaxy with an unusually low metallicity, challenging current theories on GC formation. The cluster's metallicity is nearly three times lower than previously known limits, suggesting that massive clusters could form from pristine gas in the early Universe.
Researchers designed hydrogels with self-renewing, lipid-based boundary layers, reducing friction by a near 100-fold. The approach maintains lubricity after drying and rehydration, opening potential applications in tissue engineering and biosensor development.
A fraction of global COVID-19 stimulus funds could help achieve Paris Agreement goals for the climate by investing in transformative green energy systems. This would boost employment, attract investors and increase society's resilience while providing clean energy.
Researchers mapped host interactions of MERS-CoV, SARS-CoV-1 and SARS-CoV-2 to identify potential drug targets. Studying patient data showed that COVID-19 patients treated with drugs targeting specific host factors fared better.
Researchers found that mammalian lipid droplets play a crucial role in organizing and supporting intracellular immune responses against microbial pathogens. The structures help drive metabolic shifts within cells toward an environment more conducive to host defense.
Researchers developed biocompatible tissue grafts that repaired both bone and cartilage in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) of pigs. The study showed promising results with intact grafts after 6 months, outperforming existing designs.
If SARS-CoV-2 becomes endemic, its pattern of transmission will depend on factors like vaccine availability and social factors. Greater monitoring of interactions with other respiratory viruses is needed to mitigate potential outbreaks.
A study found that urban daycare children developed more diverse microbiomes and signs of a better-regulated immune system after playing in renovated yards with natural forest floor. The intervention improved immune regulation and health-associated commensal microbiota among 3-5 year olds.
Researchers found that serum antibodies from recovered SARS patients effectively neutralized SARS-CoV-2 in vitro. The study also discovered that mice and rabbits immunized with a specific RBD elicited stronger antibody responses against SARS-CoV-2.
Researchers have found that REGN-COV2 offers benefits in animal models mimicking SARS-CoV-2 infection pathology, providing evidence for its therapeutic potential both as a preventative measure and treatment. The study demonstrates significant protection against weight loss and viral load reduction in golden hamsters treated with the drug.
Sustainable space management is at risk under US-centric policies that prioritize national regulation over international cooperation. The Artemis Accords could lead to a 'race to the bottom' in space mining regulations, threatening lunar stability and increasing asteroid mining risks.
Researchers developed a novel grid to minimize sample movement in single-particle cryo-EM, resulting in higher image quality and increased data throughput. The new support film, dubbed 'hexAuFoil,' reduces particle displacement and enables the collection of clearer protein structures.
A new study from New York City finds that behavioral interventions, or "nudges," can reduce failures to appear (FTAs) in court for low-level offenses. Simplifying court summons forms and text message reminders improved attendance by 13% and 25%, respectively, leading to 30,000 fewer arrest warrants over a three-year period.
The OSIRIS-REx spacecraft has provided detailed insights into the composition and structure of asteroid Bennu, a 'rubble pile' of carbon-rich material. Researchers have discovered that Bennu's surface has undergone complex evolution due to space weathering processes and that carbonate minerals are widespread across most of its surface.
Researchers found that IgG antibodies remain stable for up to 105 days after symptom onset in COVID-19 patients, while IgA and IgM antibodies decay rapidly. Saliva can be used as an alternative biofluid for antibody testing due to detectable levels of spike protein-specific antibodies.
Researchers analyzed digital reconstructions of four Neanderthal infants' rib cages to discover the characteristic feature existed at birth. The analysis found shorter and deeper rib cages in Neanderthals compared to modern humans, regardless of age.
A non-invasive device has reduced tinnitus symptoms by up to 1 year, achieving high patient satisfaction. The bimodal technique uses sound and low-voltage electricity to stimulate the ears and tongue, providing a potentially effective treatment for this debilitating auditory disorder.
The GDPR's restrictive approach to international data transfers is hindering global biomedical research, including essential COVID-19 studies. The authors propose amendments to address this issue, ensuring the balance between individual privacy and societal benefits in research contexts.
A new study reveals that mouse ependymal cells have latent potential to differentiate into oligodendrocytes, which provide protective insulation for neural wiring. This finding suggests an alternative approach to spinal cord repair by leveraging resident stem cells.
A new study finds that integrating terrestrial and freshwater conservation planning doubles protection of tropical freshwater ecosystems. This approach can increase freshwater species protection by up to 600% with only a 1% reduction in terrestrial species protection.
A new investigation by Science reveals that the FDA's enforcement of clinical trial regulations is often light-handed, slow-moving, and secretive. The agency rarely levels sanctions or disqualifies scientists from clinical research, and cases are frequently resolved based on unverified claims.
Researchers in Uganda have identified a new species of bacteria that may contribute to postinfectious hydrocephalus, a common cause of neurosurgery in children worldwide. The study found Paenibacillus frequently co-occurred with cytomegalovirus infections in affected infants.