WEIRD SCIENCE
The SARS-CoV-2 virus endures for days on plastic or metal but disintegrates soon after landing on copper surfaces. Here’s why. Copper wire (Getty Images) By Jim Morrison, SmithsonianMag.Com – 2020 Apr 14 – When researchers reported last month that the novel coronavirus causing …
High-speed photography shows a sneeze can blast saliva and mucus well beyond current social distancing guidelines, and tiny droplets can remain in the air longer than thought. High-speed video imaging colored to reveal the two main components of a sneeze show a shower …
By Loz Blain – New research has identified the pathways through which the presence or absence of certain smells can trigger or switch off fat storage in the intestines. olly18/Depositphotos. – Olfactory signals can switch fat storage mechanisms on and off without having any …
By Rich Haridy – We knew the distinctive smell of rain on dry earth was the result of a chemical released by bacteria, but new research helps explain why the bacteria evolved to do this. mihtiander/Depositphotos. – New research from an international team of …
By Nick Lavars 2020 Apr 07 – New research suggests we may have been underestimating the role the ocean plays in soaking up CO2 from the atmosphere. ongap_/Depositphotos. – The world’s oceans play an important role in regulating the amount of carbon dioxide in …
By Rich Haridy – After some debate the CDC now recommends the general public wear some kind of face covering when in public spaces. Kzenon/Depositphotos. – Reversing prior advice, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is now recommending everyone in the United …
By Benjamin Neuman, The Conversation 2020 Apr 06 – COVID-19 is caused by a coronavirus called SARS-CoV-2. Coronaviruses belong to a group of viruses that infect animals, from peacocks to whales. They’re named for the bulb-tipped spikes that project from the virus’s surface …
By Michael Irving 2020 Apr 06 – A graphical representation of a hole in the ozone layer over the Arctic. Modified Copernicus data (2020), processed by DLR/BIRA/ESA. – Although a hole in the ozone layer might sound like a decidedly retro environmental issue, it’s …
Coronavirus RNA was found on a cruise ship 17 days after passengers left. What are the risks of handling packages and groceries? Coronavirus – latest US updates Live global updates See all our coronavirus coverage – This scanning electron microscope image shows SARS-CoV-2 …
By Michael Irving – A new clinical trial of CAR T-cell therapy has shown promise against lymphoma, but there are some negative side effects. lightsource/Depositphotos. – A novel form of cancer immunotherapy has shown exceptional promise in a new clinical trial. The treatment involves …
